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Protection may be given to ex-mayor Mabilog -- DOJ

Philippines | National

Protection may be given to ex-mayor Mabilog -- DOJ

By Jeffrey Damicog

The government is willing to provide protection to former Iloilo City mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog who recently returned to the country after seeking asylum in the United States for being named in the drug watchlist of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla on Wednesday, Sept. 11.

“He may have some fears for his life and we are willing to grant a protection of sorts unless of course he can be given witness protection later on,” Remulla said during a press briefing at the Department of Justice (DOJ).

Mabilog, who left the Philippines in 2017, returned to the country this week but got arrested upon his arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International AIrport (NAIA) by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) based on the arrest warrant issued by the Sandiganbayan where he is facing charges of violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act and the Code of Conduct for Public Officials.

“He posted bail I was told yesterday,” noted Remulla.

Meanwhile, Remulla said the DOJ is interested to know why Mabilog was in Duterte’s drug watchlist.

“I think it is just right that we ask him these questions, his being in drug watchlist, and to give his side there kasi wala pa ‘tong nakukuhang side n’ya (because he has not given his side),” he said.

When asked what could have prompted Mabilog to return to the Philippines, Remulla replied: “The eletions are coming.”

“The filing of certificate of candidacy is October next month. It is very timely for him to come back and relaunch his political career,” he explained.

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