Philippine senator Estrada surrenders over graft case

Senator Jose "Jinggoy" Estrada, son of a former president, surrendered to authorities on Monday following a court order for his arrest. He faces a charge of plunder, a non-bailable offense in the Philippines, related to an infrastructure scandal that has previously sparked public protests.

The Office of the Ombudsman last week accused Estrada of violating anti-corruption laws by allegedly receiving kickbacks totaling 573 million pesos ($9.3 million). Despite the serious nature of the charges, Estrada stated his intention not to seek Senate custody, asserting his readiness to defend himself in court.

"I will not seek Senate custody. I am ready to defend myself before the court and I will not hide behind the institution to evade the process," Estrada told reporters. He has maintained his innocence, claiming the charges are politically motivated. Estrada had previously posted bail for a separate offense.

The ongoing corruption scandal, which has focused on flawed flood-control facilities, has significantly impacted the graft-weary nation and contributed to a slowdown in economic growth in recent quarters. The legal proceedings against Estrada are a prominent development in the government's anti-corruption efforts.

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I will not seek Senate custody. I am ready to defend myself before the court and I will not hide behind the institution to evade the process.