SENATOR Rodante Marcoleta turned himself in on Monday morning after the Sandiganbayan issued an arrest warrant against him in connection with the ₱75‑million plunder case filed over undeclared campaign donations.
He was brought to the Philippine National Police headquarters at Camp Crame to begin the legal process, with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) chief Major General Robert Alexander Morico II present at the anti‑graft court during the proceedings.
Following the hearing, Marcoleta was escorted aboard a PNP coaster bus and transported to the CIDG office, where he will undergo standard booking procedures before being transferred to his detention facility.
As stated in court arrangements, he will eventually be detained at the custodial center in Payatas, where he will remain while the plunder case moves forward. This development comes after the court formally determined there was sufficient basis to proceed with criminal charges.
Speaking to reporters before leaving the Sandiganbayan, Marcoleta said he fully expected the arrest order and emphasized that he would not evade accountability.
“When I came here, I already expected everything. I will not hide; I will face it all. If they serve the warrant, I will accept it,” he stated firmly, showing his willingness to cooperate with the legal process. His presence at the hearing was voluntary, demonstrating his stance that he intends to defend himself openly.
The case stems from allegations involving campaign funds received for his 2025 senatorial bid, which prosecutors claim were not properly declared. Though Marcoleta had filed several motions seeking to dismiss the complaint, the Sandiganbayan’s Third Division ruled that probable cause exists, clearing the way for the issuance of the arrest warrant. With the warrant now served and his surrender completed, the legal proceedings will continue as the court determines the next steps in the plunder case.
metrosundaily
