NATIONAL
Advocates Philippines
DOJ Issues Resolution On Charges Against Bantag And Zulueta
Screengrab from DOJ press briefing
In a recent development, the panel of prosecutors handling the case against Director General Gerald Bantag and Deputy Security Head Ricardo Zulueta of the National Bilibid Prison (NBP) has issued a resolution. The resolution pertains to the alleged violations of PD 1829, obstruction of justice, and the anti-torture act under the revised penal code, specifically regarding the serious physical injuries inflicted on two jail guards, Escopete and Usman.
The resolution, which was filed by the aforementioned jail guards before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 13, has now been made public after an extensive exchange of affidavits, counter-affidavits, and replies between the involved parties. The decision was released yesterday afternoon, following a briefing on the matter.
According to the complaint filed by the jail guards, they accuse Director General Bantag of stabbing them in the hand and knee. These alleged incidents took place within the NBP premises, implicating the high-ranking prison officials in acts of physical violence against their subordinates.
The panel of prosecutors has reviewed the evidence and testimonies presented during the proceedings. Based on their assessment, they have found sufficient grounds to proceed with the filing of charges against Director General Bantag and Deputy Security Head Zulueta. The resolution will now be formally submitted to the court, marking the next phase of the legal process.
The case has garnered significant attention and has raised concerns regarding the treatment of inmates and the management of the NBP. Director General Bantag has previously faced controversies related to his role in implementing reforms within the prison system, including incidents of violence.
As this latest development unfolds, the court will ultimately determine the fate of Director General Bantag and Deputy Security Head Zulueta, as they face the charges brought against them. The resolution signifies a crucial step towards seeking justice for the alleged victims and ensuring accountability within the NBP.
The resolution, which was filed by the aforementioned jail guards before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on January 13, has now been made public after an extensive exchange of affidavits, counter-affidavits, and replies between the involved parties. The decision was released yesterday afternoon, following a briefing on the matter.
According to the complaint filed by the jail guards, they accuse Director General Bantag of stabbing them in the hand and knee. These alleged incidents took place within the NBP premises, implicating the high-ranking prison officials in acts of physical violence against their subordinates.
The panel of prosecutors has reviewed the evidence and testimonies presented during the proceedings. Based on their assessment, they have found sufficient grounds to proceed with the filing of charges against Director General Bantag and Deputy Security Head Zulueta. The resolution will now be formally submitted to the court, marking the next phase of the legal process.
The case has garnered significant attention and has raised concerns regarding the treatment of inmates and the management of the NBP. Director General Bantag has previously faced controversies related to his role in implementing reforms within the prison system, including incidents of violence.
As this latest development unfolds, the court will ultimately determine the fate of Director General Bantag and Deputy Security Head Zulueta, as they face the charges brought against them. The resolution signifies a crucial step towards seeking justice for the alleged victims and ensuring accountability within the NBP.
May 16, 2023
