The Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed that the prosecution has returned the complaint filed against Senator Robin Padilla to the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG).
DOJ Secretary Explains Decision
During a press briefing yesterday, Justice Secretary Fredderick A. Vida shared the prosecution's action. He said the complaint filed by the police against the lawmaker was returned for additional investigation into the case. This is in accordance with Department Circular No. 20, where the investigating prosecutors requested additional documents or sworn statements from involved individuals. According to the secretary, it would be premature to comment as the investigation is still ongoing.
Background of the Case
It will be recalled that the PNP-CIDG filed an obstruction of justice complaint against Senator Padilla in May. The complaint is related to the lawmaker's alleged role in helping Senator Bato Dela Rosa escape from the Senate.
Secretary Vida also said that the camp of Attorney Jimmy Bondoc has received the letter they sent recently. The letter aims to clarify the lawyer's recent statements regarding the service of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court against his client, Senator Dela Rosa.
The secretary warned individuals found to have helped the wanted lawmaker escape. He emphasized that they may face liability once their role in the incident is discovered.
