Sandiganbayan rejects Faeldon's demurrer motion

The Sandiganbayan has rejected former Bureau of Customs (BOC) commissioner Nicanor Faeldon's request to file a demurrer to evidence on Thursday, April 4.

Faeldon and three co-accused were denied permission by the court to challenge the strength of the prosecution's case, which could have led to their acquittal if granted.

Former senator Panfilo 'Ping' Lacson filed complaints against Faeldon in 2017 for approving rice shipments worth P34 million despite customs officers seizing them for lacking valid import permits and unpaid duties.

The court denied the motions, stating that granting it would not terminate the cases and could unnecessarily delay proceedings.

Associate Justice Maryann E. Corpus Mañalac wrote an eight-page resolution with the concurrence of Justices Zaldy V. Trespeses and Lorifel L. Pahimna denying Faeldon’s request to file a demurrer without leave.