The Office of the Ombudsman has filed or is set to file plunder charges against Senator Rodante Marcoleta before the Sandiganbayan, according to multiple reports. The case relates to a reported P75 million campaign donation allegedly received by Marcoleta that, prosecutors say, was not properly disclosed. In January 2025, former Anakalusugan Rep. Mike Defensor and other individuals—identified in one report as Aristotle Viray and Joseph Espiritu—are said to have donated P30 million, P25 million, and P20 million for Marcoleta’s senatorial bid.
Ombudsman spokespersons and officials characterize the matter as a plunder case under Republic Act No. 7080, noting that the amount exceeds the P50 million threshold cited for plunder. Marcoleta, in his counter-affidavit, argues that the P75 million donation was not public funds and therefore should not qualify as plunder. Rappler also reports that the Ombudsman’s findings include evidence of alleged conspiracy between Marcoleta and other respondents.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian is reported as saying Marcoleta will be able to defend himself in court. Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla is also quoted as denying that the senator is being singled out, saying filings are based on merit.
