Manila:The Sandiganbayan anti-graft court has denied former Senator Ramon "Bong" Revilla's motion to file a demurrer to evidence. This motion sought the dismissal of the malversation case against him and others, concerning alleged irregularities in a multimillion flood control project in Bulacan.

According to Philippines News Agency, Revilla's co-accused include former Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bulacan district engineers Brice Hernandez, Jaypee Mendoza, Arjay Domasig, and Emelita Juat, along with DPWH personnel Juanito Mendoza and Christina Pineda. The court has scheduled the initial presentation of the defense's evidence for November 24.

Revilla is currently out on bail, having posted PHP1 million for his temporary liberty last August. Meanwhile, Senator Rodante Marcoleta has filed a motion to submit a demurrer to evidence in his plunder case before the Sandiganbayan. Marcoleta is accused of receiving campaign donations totaling PHP75 million from former congressman Mike Defensor and businessmen Aristotle Viray and Joseph Espiritu during the mid-term 2025 elections.

Under court rules, an accused may submit a demurrer to evidence to seek dismissal of charges by arguing the insufficiency of the prosecution's evidence. If done with a "motion for leave," the accused can still present their defense even if the demurrer is denied.