Two independent contractors of GMA Network, Richard Dode Cruz and Jojo Nones, have denied allegations of sexual abuse made by Sparkle actor Sandro Munalch during a Senate hearing on Monday, August 12, 2024.
Despite their denials, the Senate determined there is “strong evidence” against Cruz and Nones, as discussed in an executive session following a request for an investigation by Senator Robinhood Padilla.
Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada stated, “We cannot yet divulge the details of the executive session, but Senators Padilla, Poe, and Bato agreed that there is strong evidence against these two gentlemen. We will withhold the information until the National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) evidence is turned in.”
Cruz and Nones, who were absent from the first Senate hearing on August 7, cited fears of a “media circus” and “premature trial” as reasons for their initial absence. Cruz clarified their employment status, stating they are paid on a per-project basis and are not executives of GMA Network.
“We don’t have influence in the network, especially with the artists,” Cruz said in Filipino, emphasizing their position as independent contractors.
During the hearing, text messages between Nones and Sandro Munalch were examined. Sandro’s father, Niño Mulanch, read out messages allegedly sent by Nones, which led to a late-night invitation to Nones’ hotel room. Nones denied the invitation, claiming he was merely being polite and that there was no direct invitation.
Nones also denied offering a spiked drink to Sandro, asserting that the actor had asked to drink wine that was already present.
The Senate hearing continues, with further investigation by the NBI expected. GMA Network has placed both Cruz and Nones under presumptive suspension pending the investigation. The next Senate hearing is scheduled for Thursday, August 14.