Sandiganbayan acquits ex-QC Mayor Bistek Bautista of graft charge in P25.3-M solar power contract - Manila Bulletin
Published January 02, 2026
Sandiganbayan Acquits Former QC Mayor Bistek Bautista of Graft Charge in P25.3-M Solar Power Contract
The Sandiganbayan has acquitted former Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista, commonly known as Bistek, of graft charges related to a solar power contract valued at P25.3 million. The court's decision was announced on October 5, 2023, and it concluded a lengthy legal battle concerning the procurement process of solar energy systems for the city government.
The case stemmed from allegations that Bautista and several other officials engaged in corrupt practices during the awarding of the contract to a private company in 2016. The prosecution argued that the contract was awarded without proper bidding, violating the provisions of the Government Procurement Reform Act. The prosecution claimed that the absence of a competitive bidding process undermined the integrity of the procurement, ultimately harming public interest.
However, the Sandiganbayan's ruling highlighted key elements that led to Bautista's acquittal. The court found that the prosecution failed to establish sufficient evidence to prove that Bautista acted with malice or intent to defraud the government. The justices noted that the contract in question was executed in good faith and that the city government benefited from the solar energy systems installed under the agreement.
During the trial, the defense presented evidence demonstrating that the procurement process was conducted according to the law. They argued that the contract was awarded based on the urgency of the project, which aimed to provide renewable energy solutions to the city and reduce its carbon footprint. The court acknowledged the importance of renewable energy initiatives in the context of environmental sustainability.
The Sandiganbayan's decision also took into account testimonies from various witnesses, including city officials and representatives from the awarded company. These testimonies supported the defense's claims that the solar power project was executed transparently and with the best interests of the public in mind.
In its ruling, the court emphasized that public officials must be held accountable for their actions. However, it also stressed the importance of due process and the need for concrete evidence when prosecuting graft cases. The Sandiganbayan's decision serves as a reminder of the legal standards that must be met in corruption cases against public officials.
Following the ruling, Bautista expressed relief and gratitude for the court's decision, stating that he always believed in the legality of the contract and the benefits it brought to Quezon City. He highlighted the significance of renewable energy projects in addressing the challenges of climate change and promoting sustainable development.
The case against Bautista was part of a broader effort by the Philippine government to combat corruption in public procurement. The administration has been actively working to strengthen the legal framework surrounding government contracts and enhance transparency in the procurement process. This includes implementing stricter guidelines and oversight mechanisms to prevent graft and corruption.
As the Philippines continues to explore renewable energy sources to meet its growing energy demands, the outcome of this case may have implications for future solar power projects and public-private partnerships in the country. The government remains committed to promoting renewable energy as part of its long-term energy strategy, aiming to increase the share of clean energy in the national grid.
The Sandiganbayan's ruling is a significant development in the ongoing discourse surrounding renewable energy and public procurement in the Philippines. It underscores the importance of ensuring that government contracts are awarded fairly and transparently, while also fostering an environment that encourages investment in renewable energy solutions.
As the country moves forward in its renewable energy initiatives, the case highlights the need for collaboration between government entities, private companies, and civil society to ensure that projects are executed in a manner that benefits all stakeholders. The focus on sustainable energy solutions is critical for the Philippines as it strives to achieve its climate goals and transition to a more sustainable energy future.
In conclusion, the Sandiganbayan's acquittal of Bistek Bautista serves as a pivotal moment in the intersection of renewable energy and public accountability. The court's decision reinforces the importance of adhering to legal standards in public procurement while recognizing the value of renewable energy projects in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and energy sustainability.
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