Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito said he is optimistic he would soon return to the Senate and resume his lawmaking duties a day after the Fifth Division of the Sandiganbayan acquitted him of graft charges in connection with the allegedly illegal procurement of R2.1-million worth firearms for the police when he was still San Juan City mayor in 2008.
“I look forward to returning to my official tasks as Senator of the Republic of the Philippines and continuing my advocacies on public transportation, youth empowerment, education, energy, housing, and economic development,” Ejercito said in a statement issued Friday night.
“While this decision will undoubtedly make my Christmas truly happy, I would like to wish everyone, especially those who are marginalized and poor, the most meaningful Christmas and a very happy and prosperous New Year!” he said.
In a 45-page ruling, the Sandiganbayan granted the demurrer to evidence Ejercito filed, saying there was no proof he caused undue injury to the government over the deal.
The anti-graft court also said it did not find Ejercito highly favoring HK Tactical Defense System Inc., the supplier of firearms.