Metro Manila (CNN Philippines) — Pangasinan Representative Amado Espino is submitting himself to a 90-day suspension order previously issued on him by the Sandiganbayan over graft charges.
In a manifestation filed with the anti-graft court’s Sixth Division on Wednesday, Espino said he will begin his preventive suspension today, December 15.
“It is worth mentioning that Accused accepts this preventive suspension with a heavy heart as it effectively deprives his constituents of its voice in Congress,” the manifestation read.
Espino previously disputed the order, but the Sandiganbayan granted with finality the prosecution’s move to have him suspended.
The court directed House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez to carry out the order. But he said the matter should be studied first due to possible issues on jurisdiction, and referred it to the House committee on rules.
Espino said he would rather voluntarily follow the order to show his willingness to cooperate with the Sandiganbayan.
“Accused respects the duly constituded authorities and gives High Regard to this Honorable Court and its legal processes and orders,” Espino said.
The congressman is facing graft charges for allegedly issuing two permits to Xypher Builders, Inc. and Alexandra Mining and Oil Ventures, Inc. when he was Pangasinan governor in 2011.
The permits allegedly allowed the companies to conduct soil remediation and magnetite extraction in Lingayen town, even if the companies were not registered with the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board.
Prosecutors said the companies lacked clearance from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau.
An accused individual, upon the request of another party, is usually suspended to prevent the person from influencing witnesses or tampering records.
