High-Profile Legal Case Involving Sandro Muhlach and GMA Network Contractors
In 2024 and 2025, a highly publicized legal case unfolded in the Philippines involving actor Sandro Muhlach and two independent television contractors, Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz. The case has drawn significant media attention and public discussion due to the seriousness of the allegations and the involvement of well‑known entertainment industry figures.
This article summarizes, in clear and careful language, what is known about the case, what charges have been filed, how the courts have responded, and where the legal process currently stands.
Who Are the Main People Involved?
Sandro Muhlach – a Filipino actor managed by Sparkle (a talent agency under GMA Network), who filed the legal complaint.
Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz – television writers and independent contractors who have worked with GMA Network; they have been named in the complaint and have denied the allegations.
What Led to the Case Being Filed?
In August 2024, Sandro Muhlach filed a formal complaint with the Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) alleging misconduct and inappropriate treatment by Nones and Cruz following a GMA Gala event in July 2024.
According to the DOJ’s resolution, prosecutors found prima facie evidence (sufficient evidence at first review) to file charges against Nones and Cruz. The elements cited in the complaint included claims of coercion and intimidation.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Charges Filed by the DOJ
In October 2024, the DOJ officially filed charges against Nones and Cruz, including:
One count of serious misconduct, and
Two counts of related inappropriate behavior.
These charges were filed in the Pasay Regional Trial Court. Prosecutors noted that Sandro’s identification of the respondents and the details of the incidents formed part of their evaluation when deciding to pursue formal charges.
Dismissal of Some Charges
In February 2025, a Pasay Metropolitan Trial Court granted a motion by the defense to dismiss the two counts of related inappropriate behavior. The court ruled that these counts were duplicative because they were already included in the more serious misconduct charge filed in the regional trial court.
Sandro Muhlach’s legal team has publicly stated that they intend to appeal the dismissal of the secondary charges, though this is separate from the main case, which remains active.
Continuation of the Main Case
The primary misconduct case is still ongoing. In late February 2025, the Pasay Regional Trial Court denied a motion by Nones and Cruz to dismiss the main charge, meaning the court found sufficient information to proceed with the trial.
During a hearing in March 2025, Sandro Muhlach provided testimony in court regarding the allegations. The session was not completed due to time limitations, and further hearings were scheduled.
After the court rejected the defense’s motion, Nones and Cruz pleaded not guilty, and the case continues through the normal trial process.
Denials and Responses
Both Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz have consistently denied the allegations, stating that the interactions were professional and social in nature and that no inappropriate conduct occurred. They also indicated that they have not yet received full copies of some legal resolutions, which affects how they can respond publicly.
Their lawyers have filed motions challenging aspects of the charges and indicated plans to file other legal motions, although those efforts were not successful in dismissing the primary charge.
Meanwhile, representatives for Sandro Muhlach have expressed confidence in the justice system and reiterated their intent to seek fair proceedings.
Public and Media Attention
The case drew attention beyond the courts. A Senate committee hearing was convened to discuss aspects of the situation, including the circumstances leading to the complaint. Some lawmakers described the evidence presented as significant, though details were withheld pending further investigation.
Media reports noted that GMA Network acknowledged the complaint and initiated its own internal procedures after receiving the formal accusation.
Current Status of the Case
As of the latest available reports:
The secondary charges were dismissed by a trial court as unnecessary due to overlap with the main misconduct charge.
The main misconduct case is ongoing in the Pasay Regional Trial Court, with hearings continuing into 2025.
Sandro Muhlach has testified, and the trial will proceed with further presentations of evidence and legal arguments.
No final verdict has been reached, and the case remains under judicial review.
In other words, the case is still active and subject to the Philippine legal process.
Conclusion
The legal case involving Sandro Muhlach and the two independent contractors, Jojo Nones and Richard Cruz, is a serious ongoing matter in the Philippine justice system. Charges have been formally filed and partially clarified by the courts, but no final judgment has been made.
Key points include:
The main misconduct charge is still active.
The secondary charges were dismissed due to overlap with the primary case.
The court continues to hear testimony and examine evidence.
All parties involved are participating in the judicial process.
Because the case is ongoing, it is important to rely on official court records and verified news sources for updates rather than rumors or speculation.
