Reacting to allegations that the plunder charges filed against opposition personalities were being “railroaded,” Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Clarissa “Claire” Castro-Seechung categorically stated that the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. would not interfere in the plunder case against Senator Rodante Marcoleta.
In an official statement, Malacañang denied claims by critics that the executive branch could influence the judiciary in the case filed against Marcoleta before the Sandiganbayan.
According to Castro-Seechung, the President firmly believes in upholding the constitutional rights of every Filipino, including the senator, and in ensuring due process. She said the President respects the principle of separation of powers and would not interfere in judicial proceedings.
“First of all, we have the separation of powers. If Sen. Rodante Marcoleta has strong evidence, he can defend his case,” the undersecretary said during a recent press briefing with Philippine media in Vancouver, Canada.
“There will be no interference, no strong-arming, and no pressure from the executive. The executive branch and the President respect the decisions of the courts,” she added.
Malacañang’s statement came in response to concerns raised by members of the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), who questioned whether the courts would remain impartial in handling the case against Marcoleta.
The INC recently organized a large rally at the People Power Monument in Quezon City to express support for Marcoleta and Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, who is facing impeachment proceedings. The religious group described the plunder case against Marcoleta as an example of “selective justice.”
Despite these concerns, the Palace urged the public not to prejudge the judicial process.
“Let us not immediately cast doubt on whatever decision the court may reach. We are not yet at that stage. The case has only been filed before the Sandiganbayan. It is not right to tarnish our courts and our justice system,” Castro-Seechung said.