Story perspectives

Senator Marcoleta arrested before Duterte impeachment, PHP75M plunder case

7/6/2026

Summary

Story summary

Senator Rodante Marcoleta was taken into custody on July 6, 2026, before presiding over Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.
The Sandiganbayan’s Third Division issued a warrant in a PHP75 million plunder case against Marcoleta.
Former Rep. Mike Defensor and businessman Joseph Espiritu were arrested after the Ombudsman said they gave an undisclosed donation to Marcoleta.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he respects the decision, while Iglesia ni Cristo protests for Marcoleta clogged EDSA.

History

Historical Context

The Sandiganbayan’s 2007 conviction of former President Joseph Estrada—who became the first Philippine president found guilty of plunder and ordered to forfeit roughly PHP732 million in assets—followed the 2001 impeachment fallout that ousted him. The court’s anti-impunity drive resurfaced when it issued a PHP75 million plunder warrant against Senator Rodante Marcoleta and arrested ex-lawmaker Mike Defensor and businessman Joseph Espiritu.

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Story summary

Senator Rodante Marcoleta was taken into custody on July 6, 2026, before presiding over Sara Duterte’s impeachment trial.
The Sandiganbayan’s Third Division issued a warrant in a PHP75 million plunder case against Marcoleta.
Former Rep. Mike Defensor and businessman Joseph Espiritu were arrested after the Ombudsman said they gave an undisclosed donation to Marcoleta.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said he respects the decision, while Iglesia ni Cristo protests for Marcoleta clogged EDSA.

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