The Philippine Senate has released Jojo Nones from its custody, August 28, 2024. Handout/Office of Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada

MANILA -- Senate President Francis Escudero has signed the order releasing GMA Network independent contractor Jojo Nones from Senate custody on Wednesday.

This, after Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada accepted Nones' written apology for his behavior in the last committee hearing on the alleged rape of GMA Network actor Sandro Muhlach.

Earlier Wednesday, Estrada's office gave Senate reporters a digital copy of Nones' letter where Nones acknowledged that his words and tone may have come across as "disrespectful," adding he regrets allowing his emotions to get the best of himself.

"I received a letter from him yesterday a letter of apology because of his demeanor yesterday during the hearing and he acknowledged that he was disrespectful and he regretted what he did yesterday," Estrada told reporters, 

"Sabi niya the anxiety and stress I have been experiencing due to my detention unfortunately clouded my judgment and I did not express myself in the manner intended. Yun."

"Well, yes, I accept his apology but I have to warn him that a repetition of this kind of demeanor he has to face another siguro another penalty siguro he might be detained again,” Estrada added.

He said that he was disappointed in Nones' behavior at the hearing, "but I understand...he was always invoking his right against self-incrimination which I understand."

READ: Sandro Muhlach testifies at Senate hearing on alleged rape

Estrada said that he already conferred with Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media Chair Robinhood Padilla who already signed the order of release that just needs the signature of Senate President Francis Escudero.

Estrada has also written to Escudero saying he has accepted Nones' apology and that he takes cognizance of the network contractor's physical and mental health.

"Thus should the committee recommend the lifting of his order of arrest and detention I will interpose no objection, for humanitarian considerations,” Estrada said in his letter.

Estrada signed his letter in the presence of Nones and Senate reporters at the Senate press office.

During that meeting, Nones apologized again, citing his emotions. Estrada informed him that Padilla already signed his release order while Estrada will bring his own letter and the release order to Escudero.

"I think he is sincere in apologizing pinaulit ko nga sa kaniya why was his demeanor like that yesterday. At least he did not invoke his right to self incrimination," Estrada told reporters.

Estrada said he will advise Padilla to wrap up the hearings as Estrada eyes the legislation that he will file based on the hearings.

"I will advise him to finish the hearing na. Ako mismo gagawa ng legislation. Well sexual harassment siguro stiffer penalties," Estrada said.

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