Former Public Works Chief Bonoan May Not Be Released Thursday Night Pending Records Check

Despite an order from the Sandiganbayan for the release of former Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, the Philippine National Police (PNP) may hold him temporarily Thursday night pending a records check for other outstanding warrants. PNP spokesperson Col. Allen Rae Co said the PNP has received a copy of the order and it is being processed by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG). Co told reporters that the order states, "unless he's being detained for any other lawful reason," and the CIDG will be conducting due diligence to check if there are any other outstanding warrants against Bonoan or if he is facing other cases in different divisions. Asked if it is possible that Bonoan will not be released tonight, Co answered in the affirmative. He said that after checking Bonoan's records, they will follow the court's orders and release him, with the process expected to be completed by Friday morning. Bonoan has been detained at the PNP General Hospital due to his old age and medical conditions. Co said that final medical checks would be done, but he would also be free to seek treatment wherever he wants. Reports indicate his health is in stable condition. Bonoan was removed from the plunder case against Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, in relation to the flood control scam. He will serve as a government witness in return for the dropping of charges by the anti-graft court.