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Sandiganbayan OKs ex-VP Binay’s trip to Italy


The Sandiganbayan has allowed former Vice President Jejomar Binay to join his wife, former Makati City Mayor Elenita Binay, on a 16-day "spiritual endeavor" to Italy.

A minute resolution from the Third Division granted Binay's motion to travel. The Fifth Division approved the same bid.

"Considering that the said accused had already been arraigned, the court, over the objection of the prosecution, hereby resolves to grant the said accused permission to travel to Italy," the Sandiganbayan said.

Binay had said he and his wife will travel to Italy from September 28 to October 13 and are expected to visit Rome, Assissi, Padova, Venice, Turin and Florence.

Binay said the trip is essential for his "spiritual endeavors," being "a devout Catholic who places great importance on his spiritual health."

He added his "deep-seated ties in the country and undeniable patriotism" will prevent him from escaping his cases at the Sandiganbayan.

The prosecution opposed Binay's motion, saying there is no urgent necessity for him to travel to Italy aside from his spiritual considerations.

Nonetheless, the Sandiganbayan allowed the former vice president to travel abroad as long as he pays travel bonds of P752,000 at the Third Division and P384,000 at the Fifth Division.

Binay has pending cases over the allegedly overpriced Makati City Hall Parking Building and the rigged construction of the Makati Science High School before the Third and Fifth Divisions, respectively. — BM, GMA News

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