Opposition eyes 'JocJoc' case to aid impeach (Philippines)

[struggle4progress]

Monday, July 24, 2006
By Danilo V. Adorador III

THE opposition is now banking on the "fertilizer scam" controversy to enlist more sympathizers, swell the skimpy number of lawmakers endorsing the impeachment complaint, and have President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo tried in the Senate, House Minority Leader Francis Escudero said ...

Escudero, who also acts as spokesperson for the United Opposition, said they are closely watching the developments on the arrest of former agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante in the US.

He said Bolante's testimony could turn the tide anytime for the opposition, especially after Catholic bishops spurned the impeachment moves.

Bolante, who is accused of "masterminding" the controversial P728 million fertilizer scam, was arrested on July 7 by US immigration authorities due to a visa-related case ...

http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/cag/2006/07/24/news/opposition.eyes.jocjoc.case.to.aid.impeach.html


Bolante asylum plan ploy to avoid RP prosecution
JULY 21, 2006

MANILA—A lawyer on Tuesday said former agriculture undersecretary Jocelyn "Joc-Joc" Bolante plans to seek asylum in the United States to avoid prosecution in the Philippines.

Harry Roque said that a person who faces charges in his country usually seeks asylum overseas.

Senators tagged Bolante the mastermind in the alleged P728-million fertilizer fund scam. The fund intended for farmers was allegedly channeled to the campaign kitty of President Arroyo in 2004.

The Senate issued a warrant of arrest against Bolante after snubbing hearings of the Committee on Agriculture about the fertilizer fund ...

http://www.balita.com/xshell.php?id=866