Sandiganbayan Upholds Bribery Case Against Pasay Judge

 

The Sandiganbayan has kept the direct bribery case against Pasay City Regional Trial Court Judge Albert Cansino intact, rejecting his bid to have the charges dismissed.

The anti-graft court’s Sixth Division found no sufficient basis to reconsider its earlier action and denied Cansino’s motion for reconsideration for lack of merit.

Cansino, who presides over RTC Branch 108, is facing allegations tied to a reported P6-million payment sought in connection with a civil case. Prosecutors allege that the amount was demanded in exchange for a favorable ruling for the defendants in the case in May 2024.

The case also names acting court clerk Mariejoy Lagman, who reportedly told investigators that she received the P6 million upon Cansino’s instruction. Her alleged role forms part of the bribery complaint lodged before the anti-graft court.

Following the filing of the case by the Office of the Ombudsman, the Supreme Court suspended Cansino from his judicial duties.

Cansino later surrendered to the Sandiganbayan in September. He did not enter a plea at the time.

The latest ruling means the direct bribery case will proceed despite Cansino’s attempt to have the proceedings halted at this stage.