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Hontiveros urges DOJ to provide protection for whistleblower on murder of NBP inmates

Philippines | National

Hontiveros urges DOJ to provide protection for whistleblower on murder of NBP inmates

By Hannah L. Torregoza

Senator Risa Hontiveros on Wednesday, December 14 called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) to provide protection for the inmate who blew the whistle on the number of high-profile prisoners who died inside the National Bilibid Prison (NBP).

Hontiveros is referring to a report on GMA’s “24 Oras” where detainee Rodel Tiaga recalled how several high-profile inmates were killed at the national penitentiary.

The inmates who were killed were reported to have died from COVID-19.

Tiaga said he got scared to disclose what happened as he feared getting on the wrong side of suspended Bureau of Corrections (BUCOR) chief Gerald Bantag.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has said they will use the information from Tiaga in their investigation into the deaths of other high-profile inmates at the NBP.

“These concerns are not just alarming, but strike at the heart of our criminal justice system,” Hontiveros said.

“I call on the DOJ (Department of Justice) to immediately investigate these serious revelations, even if it will eventually mean a total overhaul of our correctional system,” the senator added.

“I also call for the protection of the PDL whistleblower because his life may be in danger after his disclosure,” she stressed.

At the same time, Hontiveros urged her colleagues in the Senate not to ignore the issue.

“Let us exercise our oversight powers, investigate where necessary and uncover gaps that we can cure with remedial legislation,” the lawmaker said.

“Hindi na natin papayagan ang cover-up. Hindi na pwede ang Wild Wild West sa loob ng ating mga piitan (We will not allow the cover-up anymore. The Wild Wild West is no longer possible inside our dungeons),” she said.

Related Tags

Risa Hontiveros New Bilibid Prison National Buerau of Investigation

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