Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Some graft cases linked to the flood control controversy have already reached the defense stage less than a year after they were filed before the Sandiganbayan.
Presiding Justice Geraldine Faith Econg told senators that the first batch of cases filed by the Office of the Ombudsman on Nov. 18, 2025 had moved substantially through trial.
She said 26 flood control-related cases involving senators and members of the House of Representatives were before the anti-graft court.
One case was archived because an accused could not be located, while proceedings against other defendants continued.
Econg said some of the cases could be resolved within the year if hearings proceed under speedy trial rules.
She added that faster disposition also helps preserve evidence because witnesses remain available and their recollection of events stays fresher.
The Sandiganbayan reported that its pending caseload had dropped to 525 from 1,229 in 2024, while its conviction rate had risen to 82.48 percent this year.
During the same hearing, Senate President Win Gatchalian opposed a proposed Php 551 million cut in the Sandiganbayan’s funding, while Econg said additional resources were needed for staffing and a planned second court building.