The Sandiganbayan Fifth Division has ordered the release of former public works secretary Manuel Bonoan after removing him as an accused in the P573-million plunder and graft cases involving alleged flood control kickbacks.
Senator Jinggoy Estrada, meanwhile, refused to enter a plea during his arraignment, prompting the court to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf.
Estrada’s lawyer said they intend to challenge the court’s decision allowing Bonoan’s exclusion from the case and the amendment of the charges.
The court also gave Estrada’s camp 10 days to explain why he should not be preventively suspended.
Bonoan will remain on temporary liberty while still facing a separate graft case for which he has already posted bail.
Source: PhilNews24 | September 4, 2026
