Surigao del Norte: The Department of Justice (DOJ) has submitted for resolution the complaints filed against leaders of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI). DOJ spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano IV announced that a decision on whether to file or dismiss the case will be made soon.
According to a news release by Philippine News Agency,"After thorough arguments and counter-arguments presented by both parties, the motion for PHDO (precautionary hold departure order) application was submitted for resolution," Clavano said. "We remain committed to ensuring a fair and thorough investigation, respecting the rights and welfare of all parties involved," he added.
Defense lawyer Hillary Olga Reserva, representing SBSI leader Jey Rence Quilario, known as Senior Agila, declined to share details of their counter-affidavit. Last June, complaints for qualified trafficking, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, and violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Anti-Child Abuse law were filed against Quilario and 12 others at the Surigao City Prosecutors Office.
Additional complaints for adultery and obstruction of justice were filed against other SBSI members. On October 9, the National Bureau of Investigation sought a PHDO against the leader and members of the SBSI, aimed at preventing them from leaving the country pending the resolution of the complaints.