MALACANANG categorically denied claims on Friday, Canada time, that the executive branch could exert influence over the judiciary in the plunder case filed against Senator Rodante Marcoleta.
Speaking during a press briefing in Vancouver, Canada, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. strictly upholds the principle of separation of powers and will not interfere in any ongoing judicial proceedings. “First of all, we have the separation of powers. If Sen. Rodante Marcoleta has strong evidence, he can defend his case,” Castro stated.
She further assured the public that there will be no intervention, coercion, or pressure from the executive department. “There will be no interference, no strong‑arming, and no pressure from the executive. The executive branch and the president respect the decisions of the courts,” Castro said.
Her remarks came in response to concerns raised by members of the Iglesia ni Cristo, who expressed doubts about the impartiality of the justice system in handling the case against their prominent member. The Office of the Ombudsman had filed the plunder complaint before the Sandiganbayan just a day prior, accusing Marcoleta and three others of misusing ₱75 million in campaign contributions.
Castro also called for trust in the legal process, noting that it is too early to question the outcome since the case has only just been lodged. “Let us not immediately cast doubt on whatever decision the court may reach. We are not yet at that stage… It is not right to tarnish our courts and our justice system,” she added.
Regarding the possibility of more mass actions following the end of a three‑day rally in support of Marcoleta, she warned that such moves should not be used to dictate the course of justice. “If that happens, it would be as if they were dictating to the investigating bodies and even to the executive branch how they should act,” she said, stressing that the administration will not yield to pressure from any group.
metrosundaily
