Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Sandiganbayan has kept alive the Php 289.4 million malversation case against former Department of Public Works and Highways officials linked to allegedly defective flood control projects.
In a 10-page resolution, the anti-graft court’s Sixth Division rejected the latest bid of the accused to overturn its June 1 ruling.
The former DPWH officials had asked the court to reconsider its denial of their move to file a demurrer to evidence.
A demurrer to evidence seeks the dismissal of a case after prosecutors finish presenting their evidence, on the argument that the evidence is not enough to convict.
The case stemmed from a Sunwest project that prosecutors claimed had serious structural deficiencies.
Former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co has been described in the case as a beneficial owner of Sunwest.
The court found that the latest plea only repeated arguments it had already considered, adding that allowing the move would merely delay the trial.
Proceedings were reset to June 30 after the defense asked for time to study its options. Co, who had been declared a fugitive from justice, remains barred from taking part in the case unless he voluntarily surrenders.