Sandiganbayan Denies Bail Recovery of Mario Relampagos
Manila, Philippines — The Sandiganbayan firmly rejected former Budget Undersecretary Mario Relampagos’ request to recover over P300,000 in bail and travel bonds. The court ruled that since Relampagos was declared a “fugitive from justice,” he forfeited his right to reclaim these funds.
In a resolution dated July 7 and authored by Special Seventh Division Chair Associate Justice Ma. Theresa Dolores Gomez-Estoesta, the court emphasized that Relampagos violated the terms of his travel and bail bond agreements. This breach led to the forfeiture of his bonds in favor of the government.
Violation of Travel and Bail Bond Terms
The resolution detailed that Relampagos was allowed to travel to the United States from December 2, 2017, to January 1, 2018. Yet, his legal counsel informed the court on January 2, 2018, that Relampagos chose not to return to the Philippines, citing various reasons. This decision was seen as a clear violation of his bond conditions.
Consequently, the court declared the bonds forfeited, which included a cash bail bond amounting to P210,000 and a travel bond of P105,000. Relampagos’ failure to comply with the travel restrictions triggered the forfeiture.
Relampagos’ Acquittal and Court’s Rebuttal
Relampagos argued that his acquittal in a graft case related to the “pork barrel” scam should automatically cancel his bail and travel bonds. He claimed that since he was acquitted, continuing the forfeiture of his bonds served no purpose other than as a penalty.
However, the court clarified that release and refund of bonds only happen if all the bond conditions have been met. Since Relampagos breached the terms by not returning as agreed, the bonds remained forfeited.
Despite the acquittal due to insufficient evidence proving conspiracy, the court maintained that the forfeiture stands because the bonds’ terms were not honored. The resolution stated, “Considering Relampagos’ breach of the conditions and the stipulations in his bonds, causing the same to be forfeited in favor of the government, it only follows that there are no longer any bonds to cancel and release in his favor.”
Fugitive Status and Legal Implications
The court further noted that any leniency on the matter is unwarranted, particularly because Relampagos has yet to present himself before the court. His continued absence supports the designation as a fugitive from justice, reinforcing the forfeiture of his bonds.
Legal experts and local leaders said this case underscores the strict enforcement of travel and bail bond conditions, even in the face of acquittals. It highlights the importance of complying with court orders to avoid additional legal consequences.
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