The Sandiganbayan Second Division has ordered the 90‑day preventive suspension of Sen. Jinggoy Estrada effective today, June 16, in connection with his graft case over the alleged flood control kickback scheme.
Presiding Justice Geraldine Econg confirmed the suspension order has been transmitted to the Senate.
Estrada, in his June 15 filing, argued the move was premature, saying he had not been given full opportunity to contest the preliminary investigation.
He warned the suspension “will effectively operate as a penalty… without due process.”
Prosecutors countered that a valid criminal information had been filed, triggering the mandatory suspension under the Anti‑Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.
The court stressed that once validity is established, suspension becomes a ministerial duty to prevent witness intimidation, evidence tampering, or misuse of authority.
Estrada earlier refused to enter a plea, prompting the court to record a not guilty plea on his behalf.
He and former DPWH NCR officials face arraignment on graft and plunder charges before the Fifth Division on June 30. # (ZIA LUNA)
