It can be remembered that during the hearing on December 7, the First Division denied in open court the motion of Revilla. First Division chairman Associate Justice Efren De La Cruz said “the court is of the view that there is a need for the accused to present evidence”. De La Cruz then clarified that Revilla may still file his demurrer but under the risk of losing the chance to present his evidence. Instead, Revilla said, the court merely stated that there is a need for him to present his own evidence, without elaborating on its decision. “Accused Revilla respectfully submits that the reasons elaborated in detail in his 'Motion for Leave to File Demurrer to Evidence' on why the evidence of the prosecution is insufficient merits more than a casual denial,” Revilla said.

Source: Philippine Star December 15, 2017 09:00 UTC