The Senate has implemented the 90-day suspension against Senator Jinggoy Estrada in connection with his plunder case, according to a Thursday report.

Atty. Renato Bantug, the Senate Secretary, confirmed that the senator has been suspended over his Sandiganbayan case in relation to his alleged involvement in the far-reaching flood control project anomalies, reported RH 28 Raymund Dadpaas.

Senate President Sherwin “Win” Gatchalian sent the notice of suspension to Estrada’s office on Monday, June 22, effectively suspending Estrada’s salary and allowances for 90 days.

“The Senate President officially notified the office of Senator Estrada that the suspension order issued by the Sandiganbayan was implemented beginning Monday, June 22,” Bantug told reporters.

It is Bantug’s understanding that the suspension also entails Estrada’s disqualification as senator-judge in the looming impeachment trial against Vice President Sara Duterte.

“He is suspended from performing the functions of a senator of the Republic,” he said.

However, Estrada’s office remains in operation despite his suspension.

On June 16, Senator Estrada said he respects the Sandiganbayan’s suspension order and asserted that, even prior to its ruling, he had already shown that he refuses to use his power to influence the proceedings against him.

He cited his decision not to seek protective custody under the Senate, his voluntary arrest, and having informed the Senate secretary to withhold his salary pending the resolution of the case.