Senator Francis Joseph “Chiz” Escudero and businessman Maynard Ngu are temporarily barred from leaving the Philippines after the Sandiganbayan granted a precautionary hold departure order (PHDO).
- Court Action: The Sandiganbayan 6th Division granted the PHDO on Monday, April 27.
- Charges: The travel ban stems from complaints involving plunder, graft, and bribery.
- Allegations: A state witness alleged a P160-million kickback was delivered for the senator’s benefit.
The Precautionary Hold Departure Order
The Sandiganbayan 6th Division, led by Chairperson Associate Justice Sarah Jane Fernandez, approved the request from the Office of the Ombudsman on Monday. The request had been raffled to the division the previous Saturday.
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla stated that the travel restrictions were necessary as Escudero faces multiple complaints related to graft and corruption.
The PHDO also extends to Maynard Ngu, a businessman and campaign donor for Escudero, who is included in the criminal complaints.
Flood Control Scandal and Alleged Kickbacks
The investigation into Escudero began following a flood control scandal. Findings revealed that Lawrence R. Lubiano, president of Centerways Construction and Development Inc., served as the senator’s top donor during the 2022 elections.
Roberto Bernardo, a former Department of Public Works and Highways undersecretary acting as a state witness, testified that Escudero allegedly received a P160-million kickback.
Bernardo claimed in his testimony that he personally delivered the money to Ngu for the benefit of the senator.
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