Imelda Marcos acquitted by Philippine Supreme Court of graft charges

The Supreme Court of the Philippines has acquitted 97-year-old former First Lady Imelda Marcos of seven counts of graft. The ruling overturns a 2018 Sandiganbayan decision that had sentenced her to prison terms totaling up to 77 years.

The case centered on allegations that Marcos used a network of seven Swiss foundations to manage and transfer funds, including approximately $200 million, while holding various public offices between 1978 and 1984. The Supreme Court's decision, dated June 10 and made public in September, stated that the prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt.

A primary reason for the acquittal was the lack of authenticated evidence. The Court noted that the Department of Justice failed to present a credible witness to certify the authenticity of the Swiss documents presented. Furthermore, the Court clarified that the activities of the foundations—such as opening bank accounts and making investments—did not sufficiently prove they were operating as businesses under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Imelda Marcos, the widow of deposed dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and mother of current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., had remained out on bail throughout the appeals process and has not served time in prison for these charges.