Former Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr. has yet to return ₱124 million to the government, stemming from his acquittal in a plunder case related to the pork barrel scam, Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed.
During his weekly radio show, Remulla highlighted that Revilla’s obligation remains unfulfilled despite the former senator being recently released on bail from another case involving malversation.
Legal Background and Implications
In 2018, the Sandiganbayan acquitted Revilla of plunder but ordered him to pay civil damages amounting to ₱124.5 million to the national treasury. His co-accused, including businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, were convicted.
It was included in his judgment of acquittal (in plunder)… and until now, the money has yet to be returned (to the government).
Jesus Crispin Remulla, Ombudsman
This case reflects ongoing challenges in the Philippine legal system regarding accountability for public officials involved in corruption. The Ombudsman had previously sought to compel Revilla to settle his civil liabilities.
Revilla's former attorney argued that since he was acquitted of criminal charges, he should not be responsible for the civil damages. This interpretation has raised ongoing discussions about the nuances of legal accountability.