CA: Masbate gov, cop can’t post bail

The Court of Appeals (CA) has reversed lower-court rulings granting bail to former Masbate congressman, now Gov. Antonio Kho and a policeman in connection with the 1995 ambush-slaying of then Masbate governor Tito Espinosa in Quezon City.

In a 26-page decision, the appellate court’s 14th division said the application for bail of Kho and SPO2 Arnel Quidato should be denied since the "evidence of guilt" against them is strong.

The ruling set aside the Aug. 28, 2003 decision of Quezon City Regional Trial Court Theresa Yadao who the appellate court said committed grave abuse of discretion for failing to appreciate the "strong evidence" of the prosecution against Kho and Quidato.

Also overturned was the Nov. 18, 1997 ruling of former Quezon City RTC judge, now CA Justice Lucas Bersamin similarly allowing Kho and Quidato to post bail. — Aurea Calica