Senador Jinggoy Estrada announced on the afternoon of June 1 that he would surrender to authorities following the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Sandiganbayan.
The warrant was issued in connection with plunder and graft cases linked to alleged corruption in flood control projects.
During a press conference, Estrada said he would remain part of the Senate majority bloc.
He stressed that he would not be swayed by pressure, political maneuvering, or intimidation to abandon his principles.
The senator also directed the Senate Secretary to withhold his salary.
According to Estrada, he wants to demonstrate to the public that he has no intention of benefiting from government funds while clearing his name.
He further emphasized that he would not place himself under Senate custody. Estrada said he would not use the institution as a shield against the allegations being raised against him.
Instead, he expressed his readiness to defend himself in court and said he would not hide in the Senate to avoid legal proceedings.
The senator maintained that he would fight the charges until the end to prove that the accusations against him are without basis.
(PHOTO COURTESY: Senate of the Philippines)
