Press Release
December 9, 2008

Gordon welcomes SC decision on Bolante's writ of habeas corpus plea

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon today welcomed the decision by the Supreme Court (SC) giving procedural due course to former agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn Bolante's petition for writ of habeas corpus.

Gordon issued the statement even as he is set to file tomorrow (Wednesday) formal charges against Bolante for disobedience to Senate's summons and false testimony for his alleged involvement in the P728-million fertilizer fund scam.

"I welcome the High Court's decision. This decision however is part of the due procedure or due process granted to Mr. Bolante's petition since it now directs the Court of Appeals to raffle the case and conduct necessary hearings," he said.

"Be that as it may, we will follow the normal legal procedure or process, and if his (Bolante's) presence is asked before the courts, the Senate blue ribbon committee will be guided accordingly, and will comply promptly and willingly," he added.

News reports revealed that the High Court, in a resolution, has given due course to the petition for habeas corpus filed by Bolante, ordering the Court of Appeals to immediately raffle the case and hold hearing on Dec. 12.

It has also ordered the Senate Sergeant-at-arms to bring Bolante and verified return of the writ on that same day.

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