Manila: The Office of the Ombudsman has filed non-bailable criminal charges for plunder against Senator Rodante Marcoleta. The charges pertain to PHP75 million in undeclared campaign contributions he allegedly received to support his Senate bid in 2025. The indictment was filed despite protests from Marcoleta's supporters, including members of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcoleta is also facing three counts of violating Presidential Decree No. 46, which prohibits public officers from accepting gifts while in office. Alongside Marcoleta, the charges have been filed against former Quezon City congressman Mike Defensor, Joseph Esperitu, and Aristotle Viray.

The plunder charge has been assigned to the 3rd division, while the charges related to receiving gifts have been distributed to the 1st, 4th, and 6th divisions. Marcoleta's financial disclosures last year reported a net worth of PHP51 million, while he spent PHP112 million on his election campaign, securing the 6th position in the senatorial race.

Marcoleta has defended the funds, stating they came in three installments in January of that year from donors who chose to remain anonymous but appreciated his capabilities as a senator.