NBI complaint vs. Leviste, others being evaluated — DOJ

The National Bureau of Investigation’s (NBI) complaint against Batangas First District Representative Leandro Leviste and six others over the alleged plot against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto is currently being evaluated, Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said Thursday.

Vida said the complaint may either be returned to the NBI or proceed to preliminary Investigation.

“Under the rules, we have 10 days to evaluate and to determine whether the case will proceed to its preliminary investigation or to dismiss the same and give it back to the NBI,” Vida said at a press briefing.

The secretary said the NBI’s recommendation to file qualified human trafficking charges against the respondents was filed on September 4.

Among the respondents are Leviste, former Negros Oriental congressman Jacinto Paras, four lawyers, and one individual.

To recall, NBI agents rescued several individuals during an entrapment operation.

Some of the victims later claimed that Paras allegedly told them they would be paid to create a story and sign an affidavit, and they would receive their payment in tranches as the case went on.

Leviste's camp previously denied involvement in the supposed ploy, while Paras' camp said the alleged talent manager approached them voluntarily to testify and asked for help in drafting the affidavit.

Meanwhile, Vida said they are also looking into the request to issue an Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order against the respondents. — RSJ, GMA News