Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 20) — The Sandiganbayan has turned down the bid of former Technology and Livelihood Resource Center (TLRC) officials to seek the immediate dismissal of corruption cases they are facing over their alleged involvement in the misuse of pork barrel.
In its resolution, the anti-graft court’s second division said the motion for leave of court to file demurrer to evidence filed by former TLRC officials Dennis Cunanan, Francis Figura and private individuals Rolleo Ignacio and Bernardita Ignacio lacked merit as there is sufficient evidence of their guilt.“After a careful study, the court finds that the evidence adduced by the prosecution, testimonial and documentary, appear to be prima facie sufficient to sustain the conviction of the accused of the crimes charged against them unless successfully rebutted by defense evidence,” the court said in the resolution signed on June 16.The court noted that the charges alleged conspiracy among the accused. This means they have to present evidence to disprove the charges against them or their non-participation in the conspiracy.A demurrer to evidence seeks the immediate dismissal of a case soon after the prosecution rests its case. The defendant would waive his right to present evidence on the ground that the prosecution’s evidence is weak. A leave of court has to be granted first before a defendant can file a demurrer.
