Pasig City orders closure of Bleu Hotel over 'illegal activities'

The Pasig City government has ordered the closure of Bleu Hotel, operated by Zerrin Development Corporation, over alleged illegal activities, dzBB’s Mark Makalalad reported Tuesday.

The closure order cited a raid by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), which reportedly uncovered violations, including human trafficking and the facilitation of prostitution.

“Thus, the continuation of such unlawful activities within your establishment constitutes a grave violation of the conditions of your business permit and/or registration with the BPLD, which requires strict compliance with all applicable laws, local ordinances, and standards of public morals and order,” the order read.

“Pending resolution of the complaint by the Office of the City Prosecutor of Pasig, and in the interest of public welfare and safety, this establishment, Zerrin Dev’t Corp./Bleu Hotel Pasig, is hereby closed,” it added.

The NBI earlier linked the hotel to the family of former AnaKalusugan party-list Rep. Mike Defensor, who has recently emerged as a staunch critic of the Marcos administration.

Bureau Director Melvin Matibag said Defensor’s wife, Julie, is the president of the company that owns the hotel.

The NBI has filed a complaint against Julie Defensor and several others before Pasig prosecutors for alleged violations of the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

In a separate statement, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said the development is not rooted in speculation or politics, but in serious allegations.

“The issuance of a closure order by the Pasig LGU reflects the government’s firm stance against all forms of exploitation. It also serves as a reminder that business permits and corporate structures do not shield anyone from liability when unlawful activities are involved,” it said.

“We urge all establishment owners and operators to ensure strict compliance with the law and to exercise diligence in the management of their businesses,” it added.

The NBI stressed that under existing laws, accountability extends to owners, incorporators, and those with legal and beneficial control over establishments.

It also clarified that the case is not yet final.

“All parties are entitled to the full protection of the law, including the opportunity to answer the charges, present evidence, and undergo proper judicial proceedings before any final determination of liability is made,” it said.

GMA News Online has sought additional comment from the Pasig City government and Julie Defensor on the closure order and will update this story once responses are received.

In an earlier statement, Julie Defensor "categorically and forcefully" denied the NBI's "baseless, malicious allegations."

"Let me be absolutely clear regarding the recent NBI operation: we have absolutely no connection to the targeted establishment or its operations," she said.—MCG, GMA News