CLARK FREEPORT – All parties in the ongoing case of the Kalangitan waste facility and the media have been forewarned to observe the sub judice rule and cease from any further public discussion on the issue.
Presiding Judge Ronald T. Haban, of Branch 66 of the Capas Regional Trial Court, Third Judicial Branch, issued the warning on the plaintiff Victor O. Hontiveros, representing the Metro Clark Waste Management Corp., as well on the defendants Clark Development Corp. president and CEO Atty. Agnes VST Devanadera and Bases Conversion and Development Authority president and CEO Joshua “Jake” Bingcang, “to observe this (sub judice) rule.”
“It has some to the attention of this court that the subject matter of this pending case has become the topic of discussions in social media and local newspapers, for and in favor of both the Plaintiff and Defendants,” read the order of Judge Haban released on Nov. 12, 2024.
“This court finds it necessary to remind the parties and all concerned of the sub judice rule.
“The sub judice rule restricts public comments and disclosures about ongoing judicial proceedings to avoid prejudgment, undue influence on the court, or obstruction of justice.
A violation of this rule may constitute indirect contempt under Sec. 3(d), Rule 71 of the Rules of Court,” it furthered. Contributed file photo
