NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
21 Cases Filed Against Alleged Socorro Cult
Photo credit: Senate PH
In a recent press conference, Department of Justice Secretary Crispin ‘Boying’ Remulla revealed that 21 criminal cases have been filed in Surigao against Jey Rence “Senior Agila” Quilario and other leaders and members of Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI).
These cases encompass charges related to trafficking in persons for the facilitation of child marriages, solemnization of child marriages, and child abuse.
Secretary Remulla stated, "We have filed 21 cases in Surigao, with the charges involving the abhorrent acts of trafficking in persons for the facilitation of child marriage, solemnization of child marriages, and child abuse. Our dedicated prosecutors have initiated these legal actions, but this is just the beginning. Many aspects of these cases require further investigation."
He emphasized the importance of conducting the trials primarily in Surigao, or potentially in another venue where the interest of justice would remain unaffected by any potential interference. Secretary Remulla expressed his expectations for the courts to issue warrants in due course.
The Secretary also mentioned that four individuals are currently detained in the Senate, awaiting further developments.
He noted that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has been requested to provide an updated report on the matter, as their initial demands in June yielded no significant progress due to external interference.
Remulla expressed his concerns regarding potential interference in the Surigao cases. He stressed the need to move the cases to another location, ensuring that justice is served without any undue influence.
These cases encompass charges related to trafficking in persons for the facilitation of child marriages, solemnization of child marriages, and child abuse.
Secretary Remulla stated, "We have filed 21 cases in Surigao, with the charges involving the abhorrent acts of trafficking in persons for the facilitation of child marriage, solemnization of child marriages, and child abuse. Our dedicated prosecutors have initiated these legal actions, but this is just the beginning. Many aspects of these cases require further investigation."
He emphasized the importance of conducting the trials primarily in Surigao, or potentially in another venue where the interest of justice would remain unaffected by any potential interference. Secretary Remulla expressed his expectations for the courts to issue warrants in due course.
The Secretary also mentioned that four individuals are currently detained in the Senate, awaiting further developments.
He noted that the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has been requested to provide an updated report on the matter, as their initial demands in June yielded no significant progress due to external interference.
Remulla expressed his concerns regarding potential interference in the Surigao cases. He stressed the need to move the cases to another location, ensuring that justice is served without any undue influence.
Nov 7, 2023
