The Sandiganbayan Third Division denied the furlough request of former senator Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., ruling that attending his brother’s wake did not constitute an emergency or compelling circumstance warranting temporary release from detention.
Revilla, who is facing a malversation through falsification case over an alleged ghost project in Pandi, Bulacan, had sought permission to leave jail for four hours to pay his respects.
The court also said granting the request could strain security resources and create the public impression that Revilla was receiving special treatment because of his former position.
Instead, the court suggested alternative ways for him to mourn, including family visits, virtual participation in memorial services, or communication through approved channels.
Revilla and several co-accused have pleaded not guilty, while the court has yet to rule on their pending bail petitions.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 8, 2026
