The Sandiganbayan has dismissed the P276-million ill-gotten wealth case involving the late President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., his widow, Imelda Marcos, and their associate, Roman Cruz, citing inordinate delay in the proceedings.
The case, which dates back 37 years under Civil Case 0006, accused Cruz of conspiring with the Marcoses to acquire assets disproportionate to their lawful income. These assets include residential properties and condominium units in Baguio City, Metro Manila, and California, USA.
Imelda Marcos, 95, and her son, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr., were named estate executors for the late president in the case. Cruz, who was then president and general manager of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and held various executive positions, was alleged to have used his position to acquire these properties illegally.
In a 30-page ruling, the court highlighted the prosecution’s failure to oppose the motion for dismissal due to the extensive delay, which violated the defendants’ right to due process. “The fact that the case was filed against the defendants and pending before this Court where they are made to defend themselves, secure services of paid counsel, and spend for their bail is enough trouble and prejudice to them,” the court explained.
The Sandiganbayan further noted that the delay compromised the possibility of a fair trial, as potential witnesses may have passed away and crucial documentary evidence could no longer be retrieved.
Addressing Imelda Marcos’ advanced age, the court stated, “Considering that the extant living defendant is 95 years old, her ability to testify and recall the events has assuredly declined, as has her health.”
The motion to dismiss filed by the Marcos family on July 16, 2024, was granted, closing the decades-old case.
