DOJ: Conviction of Satur Ocampo and France Castro of Child Abuse Imperils 2025 Electoral Bid

July 17, 2024

The Department of Justice today said that the recent court conviction of ACT Partylist Rep. France Castro and former Rep. Satur Ocampo, among others, has placed legal roadblocks about their eligibility to pursue elective positions in the upcoming 2025 elections.

During a press conference led by the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), Department of Justice Spokesperson Atty. Jose Dominic Clavano IV emphasized that the conviction of Ocampo and Castro, found guilty of child abuse, brings into question their eligibility for public office.

Clavano highlighted the gravity of the risks faced by minors during the 2018 incident, emphasizing that the court's decision was based on facts and the law. He stressed the importance of respecting the legal process and upholding the well-being of our youth.

"The eligibility rules for public office are found in the Constitution and relevant laws including the Omnibus Election Code. At doon sa Omnibus Election Law nakasaad kung ang isang tao ay convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude ay disqualified siya to run for public office," Clavano said.

"Ang pang-aabuso sa bata or child abuse gaya nito ay pasok sa moral turpitude. Crimes of moral turpitude involves acts that are morally wrong and goes against the basic principles of decency and humanity," he elaborated.

As with their right to post bail, Clavano explained that bail, though a matter of right unless convicted, now rests on a discretionary basis, considering the strength of evidence and the nature of the crime.

"The decision on bail holds significant weight, potentially shaping the immediate future of Ocampo and Castro. Given the conviction and the judge's thorough analysis, there is a strong likelihood that Castro's motion for bail may be denied, transitioning from a matter of right to a discretionary consideration,” he stressed.

He said that the eligibility of the convicted individuals to run for elective positions in 2025 is now under scrutiny, with disqualifications for crimes involving moral turpitude, such as child abuse, as outlined in the Omnibus Election Code.

Clavano reiterated, "The conviction serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with seeking public office. Upholding the law and respecting due processes are paramount."

In a detailed 26-page ruling, the Tagum City Regional Trial Court handed down prison sentences on Castro and Ocampo, ranging from a minimum of four years, nine months, and 11 days to a maximum of six years, eight months, and one day in jail.

Together with Ocampo and Castro, the court also pronounced a verdict of guilt against their co-accused, including Ma. Eugenia Victoria Nolasco, Jesus Madamo, Meriro Poquita, Maricel Andagkit, Marcial Rendon, Marianie Aga, Jenevive Paraba, Nerhaya Talledo, Ma. Concepcion Ibarra, Nerfa Awing, and Wingwing Daunsay.

The court found them in violation of Section 10(a), Article VI of Republic Act 7610, commonly referred to as the “Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act.”

RTC-Branch 2, designated as the family court, mandated that the accused collectively pay P10,000 to each minor victim as civil indemnity, along with an additional P10,000 for moral damages.

Meanwhile, Pastor Edgal Ugal, Rev. Ryan C. Magpayo, Eller A. Ordeniza, and Rev. Jurie Jaime were acquitted by the court due to the prosecution's failure to establish their guilt.###

NTF-ELCAC MEDIA BUREAU

Ref: Joel M. Sy Egco

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