Metro Manila, Philippines – Former Sen. Bong Revilla is in “very good health condition” to undergo trial following his voluntary surrender to authorities for a malversation case related to the flood control corruption scandal, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla said on Tuesday, Jan. 20.
Revilla underwent medical examination by the Philippine National Police at Camp Crame in Quezon City, where he surrendered on Monday evening, right after the issuance of an arrest warrant against him.
The Sandiganbayan 3rd Division released the arrest warrant against Revilla and six others for non-bailable malversation charges in connection with the ₱92.8-million flood control project in Pandi, Bulacan which was awarded in March 2025 but never implemented.
In a briefing, Remulla said Revilla was duly processed and was read of his rights.
“He was to be found in good physical shape and capable of undergoing trial… He is 59 and he is as healthy as a 59-year-old could be, even healthier,” he said.
In 2024, Revilla had an operation as he suffered an Achilles tendon rupture for running too fast while shooting a film.
Asked about this, Remulla said: “Matagal na ‘yon eh. He’s been working out. Nakikita ko nga sa Alabang nagja-jogging pa minsan, eh. He’s in good physical shape.”
[Translation: That’s a long time ago. He’s been working out. Sometimes, I see him jogging in Alabang. He’s in good physical shape.]
Revilla also surrendered a total of 20 firearms to the police.
Remulla said Revilla called him when the electronic warrant came out on Monday. The interior secretary advised his “lifelong friend” to surrender.
The two are members of powerful political families in Cavite.
The Sandiganbayan will be deciding where Revilla will be imprisoned.
In 2018, Revilla was acquitted of plunder charges in relation to the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel scam.
