Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Karl Miranda has denied a motion seeking the mandatory inhibition from handling the flood control case involving former senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla Jr., stating that there is no legal basis for him to step aside.
Revilla’s legal team previously filed a motion for inhibition, alleging a possible conflict of interest and questioning Justice Miranda’s ability to remain impartial in the proceedings.
The defense argued that the circumstances surrounding the case warranted the justice’s voluntary inhibition to preserve fairness and public trust.
However, in a resolution dated February 10, Justice Miranda rejected the motion, emphasizing that the former senator's camp failed to present concrete proof of bias or partiality.
He said there was no showing of any act or conduct on his part that would compromise his neutrality in resolving the case.
Justice Miranda stressed that mere allegations or suspicions of bias are insufficient grounds for a judge's inhibition from a case.
Under existing rules, inhibition is warranted only when there is a clear and convincing evidence of personal interest, prejudice, or any circumstance that could affect the magistrate’s impartiality.
The resolution means that Justice Miranda will continue to handle the flood control case against Revilla, which is currently pending before the Sandiganbayan.
The case forms part of the ongoing legal proceedings involving the former lawmaker.
The Sandiganbayan has yet to announce the next hearings or developments.
Written by Domleo Pineda, Insight PH
Domleo Pineda, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
