MANILA — A Senate panel on Wednesday issued a subpoena ad testificandum against the two GMA Network independent contractors tagged as respondents in the sexual harassment case filed by actor Sandro Muhlach. 

• Sandro Muhlach files complaint vs GMA independent contractors\

The Senate Committee on Public Information and Mass Media is currently investigating the incident involving Muhlach and GMA contractors Richard Cruz and Jojo Nones.

The two have denied committing abuse against Muhlach, son of actor Niño Muhlach.

• GMA independent contractors respond to Sandro Muhlach complaints

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada sought the issuance of subpoena after Cruz and Nones sent a letter of regret for skipping the hearing.

"I just read the letter coming from Mr. Richard Cruz and Mr. Jojo Nones and I believe that the letter, the statements stated here are unacceptable," Estrada said.

"I just would like to give a piece of advice to these 2 gentlemen, alam niyo pagka inimbita kayo sa Senado huwag niyo i-preempt 'yung aming mga tanong. I think this letter is totally unacceptable and I move that we subpoena them ad testificandum on the next hearing," Estrada added.

Senator Bong Revilla seconded the motion, which was approved by panel chair Sen. Robin Padilla.

Estrada also wanted Sandro Muhlach to face the committee but his lawyer said he is still traumatized by the incident. 

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Anti-Graft Division chief Marie Catherine Nolasco-Illescas explained Muhlach underwent behavioral science evaluation which led to a recommendation that he limit his public exposure.

Estrada then withdrew his motion. 

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