JUSTICE Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has indicated the potential for initiating a formal investigation into claims that individuals involved in the killing of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, which resulted in the unintended deaths of several civilians, have been offered substantial bribes to retract their statements.
“We may consider a thorough examination of this matter. The occurrence of such events does not come as a surprise to us, which is why we had foreseen it approximately two and a half weeks ago. Given the mysterious happenings and the anticipated recantations, we are not taken aback in any way,” Remulla stated in mixed Filipino and English.
Furthermore, Remulla has not ruled out the possibility that the alleged offer of ₱8 million per suspect was indeed accepted, considering the observed “patterns” in the situation.
“Given the current pattern we are witnessing with the purported recantations, it is a possibility. We cannot be certain,” Remulla expressed.
Previously, Remulla revealed that suspects involved in the high-profile murder of Degamo had purportedly been offered ₱8 million each to retract their statements.
During an interview with CNN Philippines on Friday morning, Remulla disclosed this information, citing the most recent intelligence report. At present, 10 suspects who had previously cooperated with the investigation have submitted their affidavits of recantation.
Remulla stated, “Yes, if I’m not mistaken, our initial report indicated that they were offered ₱8 million each… ₱8 million each was offered to the suspects to induce them to alter their statements.”
When asked about potential charges that could be filed in connection with the alleged bribery of the suspects, Remulla mentioned “obstruction of justice.”
“Technically, it is obstruction of justice when you attempt to evade personal liability for an unlawful act through various means,” he explained.
Remulla also expressed disappointment that a former high-ranking official from the Justice Department was allegedly involved in the bribery scheme.
“It’s truly unfortunate and leaves a negative impression. We strive to serve the people in this capacity. I hold the undersecretaries and directors in high regard within my team. It’s truly regrettable that if these allegations are proven, there are individuals who would stoop so low,” he added.
