By Samantha Yu
MANILA, Philippines — Former senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. voluntarily surrendered to authorities on Monday night following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Sandiganbayan in connection with the alleged anomalous flood control project, according to Inquirer.net.
Revilla turned himself in after learning that the anti-graft court’s Third Division had ordered his arrest and issued a hold departure order against him and other respondents linked to the case.
Philippine National Police (PNP) officials confirmed that Revilla is now under the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) at Camp Crame. In a text message to reporters, CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Robert Alexander Morico II affirmed that the former lawmaker had submitted himself to authorities.
In a video posted on his Facebook page earlier in the evening, Revilla said he had received information regarding the arrest warrant and expressed disappointment over what he described as a lack of due process. Despite this, he said he would face the charges head-on, maintaining his innocence.
Revilla also appealed for prayers for himself and his family, saying the situation has been deeply painful for them.
Later that night, the PNP released a statement confirming that Revilla surrendered accompanied by his wife and children. Authorities said the CIDG immediately served the warrant of arrest upon his arrival and informed him of the nature of the charges as well as his constitutional rights.
“He is currently undergoing standard booking and documentation procedures, including the required medical examination, in accordance with existing rules and protocols,” the PNP said.
The Sandiganbayan earlier issued arrest warrants and hold departure orders against Revilla and other individuals allegedly involved in the controversial flood control project.
— Story based on a report by Inquirer.net