MALACAÑANG FLAGS CONCERNS OVER POSSIBLE HIDDEN DECISION ON VILLANUEVA

Malacañang said it would be “alarming” if the dismissal order against then-Congressman Joel Villanueva, issued in 2016 for misusing his PDAF, was secretly reversed in 2019 by former Ombudsman Samuel Martires.

Palace Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro stressed that any such reversal could undermine public trust in the justice system and called for a thorough investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman.

She noted that whether the dismissal remains valid depends on procedural circumstances, including whether parties were properly notified and if motions for reconsideration were timely addressed.

Castro also highlighted that criminal proceedings would continue independently, even if procedural issues arose in the administrative case.

The Palace emphasized that any violations or delays should be corrected to ensure accountability and transparency.

Source: PhilNews24 | October 25, 2025