GMA News Online, citing a dzBB radio interview, reports that Senator Miriam Santiago hinted that former president and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Arroyo could "still be allowed to post bail if it can be proven the evidence against her is weak."


The GMA News Online article noted that Arroyo was placed under arrest last November 18 after a Pasay City court issued a warrant for her arrest based on the complaint filed against her by the Commission on Elections.

Santiago explained that the court may hold a bail hearing for Arroyo to determine if the evidence against her is strong. "There has to be a showing evidence of guilt against her is strong," she said.

The GMA News Online article noted: "Under Section 7 of Rule 114 of the 1985 Rules on Criminal Procedure, a person charged with a capital offense or offense punishable by life imprisonment shall not be entitled to bail 'when evidence of guilt is strong.' [On the other hand], Section 8 of Rule 114 provides that the prosecution has the burden of showing the evidence of guilt is strong."

In light of statements, Santiago said she is "in favor of Arroyo being allowed house arrest and under guard at least until her arraignment." She added, "Bago siya ma-convict dapat muna sundan natin ang presumption of innocence. Huwag natin [s'yang] ipapahiya (Before she is convicted, we have to adhere to the presumption of innocence. We shouldn't humiliate her)."

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