The Sandiganbayan 4th Division has ordered the arrest of Senator Rodante Marcoleta and former congressman Mike Defensor for allegedly violating Presidential Decree (PD) No.46, which prohibits public officials from accepting gifts.The warrants of arrest were issued on July 8, 2026, with a bail set at P30,000.This comes after the 3rd Division had already issued arrest warrants for Marcoleta, Defensor, and two others in a non-bailable plunder case.

Defensor is currently detained at Quezon City Jail, while Marcoleta remains in the custody of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) for medical evaluation.Marcoleta was admitted to the PNP General Hospital due to chest pain, nape pain, and ear ringing, with his health status being closely monitored.

The case highlights ongoing legal actions against public officials for corruption, with the Sandiganbayan emphasizing strict enforcement of anti-corruption laws.Additionally, there is a request to consolidate cases against Marcoleta, indicating the complexity of the legal proceedings.

The charges underscore the government's commitment to holding officials accountable for unethical practices, even as personal health issues complicate the judicial process.