The Bureau of Pardons and Parole Executive Director 3 Reynaldo Bayang has revealed that Presidential Spokesperson and Chief Legal Counsel referred a letter for executive clemency or presidential pardon of the rape-slay convict and former Calauan, Laguna Mayor Antonio Sanchez.
Panelo was the former lawyer of the controversial mayor who was charged guilty on the killing of University of the Philippines Los Baños students Eileen Sarmenta and Allan Gomez in 1993.
“In line with the President’s commitment for good governance, transparency and immediate actions on matters that affect the welfare of the people, we are referring this matter to your good office for your evaluation and for whatever appropriate action you may want to undertake under your premises,” the letter said.
Panelo, however, denied that the letter was akin to “recommendation” and intervention to free Sanchez from jail.
He said in his latest statement: “Referral of the letter asking for executive clemency to the appropriate authority is not a recommendation.”
Panelo previously claimed he never intervened and had no hand in Sanchez’ case.
He also said that last time he spoke with the former mayor’s family was three years after the conviction in 1995 when he visited another client.
Panelo repeatedly insisted that his former client Sanchez is not qualified under the Good Conduct Time Allowance Law.
