Complaints vs. SBSI leader, others submitted for resolution

MANILA – The complaints filed against leaders of the Surigao del Norte-based Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) are now submitted for resolution by the Department of Justice (DOJ) panel of prosecutors who will determine whether to file the case or dismiss it.

“After thorough arguments and counter-arguments presented by both parties, the motion for PHDO (precautionary hold departure order) application was submitted for resolution. Furthermore, the preliminary investigation was concluded, and efforts are being made to resolve the case as expeditiously as possible,” DOJ spokesperson Jose Dominic Clavano IV said in a statement.

“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, who represents SBSI leader Jey Rence Quilario, also known as Senior Agila, declined to give details of the counter-affidavit they filed before prosecutors.

“Of course, we opposed, but everything we laid down with regard to our opposition has been raised before the DOJ already. So, I think I am still barred by the sub judice rule to say the grounds and what happened,” she said.

“It is submitted for resolution now as of this moment, (but) we are hoping that everything that we raised in the counter affidavit will be taken into consideration with the filing of this case,” she added.

Last June, complaints for qualified trafficking, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, violation of Republic Act 7610 or the Anti-Child Abuse law have been filed against Quilario and 12 others before the Surigao City Prosecutors Office.

A separate complaint for adultery against another SBSI member and a complaint for obstruction of justice was filed against another leader of the group.

On October 9, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) sought the issuance of a PHDO against the leader and members of the SBSI to prevent them from leaving the country pending the resolution of the complaints filed against them.