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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider NBI demands proof from ex-Rep Defensor on Zaldy Co's ex-aide

NBI demands proof from ex-Rep Defensor on Zaldy Co's ex-aide

Published Nov 17, 2025 02:13 pm
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on Monday, Nov. 17, demanded from former congressman Mike Defensor to show proof of his claims that its personnel beat up a former aide of resigned congressman Zaldy Co and forced the aide and his wife to leave the Philippines.
“We call on Mr. Defensor to present verifiable evidence, not hearsay, should he persist in making these accusations,” said the NBI in a statement.
The NBI issued the statement in response to claims of Defensor in a news report that members of the NBI detained and beat up Co’s former aide, John Paul Estrada, and his wife.
Defensor also alleged in the news report that the NBI gave the Estrada couple fake passports and were flown to Chile.
The NBI said: “These allegations are unfounded, unsupported by evidence, and purely speculative. No complaint, report, or medical record exists showing that Mr. Estrada or his wife suffered physical harm. There is no record of their custody under the NBI.”
It added that it has started its coordination with the Bureau of Immigration on the issue and “we are currently awaiting their response on the matter.”
Meanwhile, the NBI said it has already contacted Defensor who gave his word to submit evidence to support his claims.
“We expect him (Defensor) to honor this commitment,” it also said
It added: “Should the evidence warrant, the Bureau shall proceed with the appropriate investigative actions.”
However, the NBI said: “Absent any credible proof, these allegations remain unfounded, cannot be given weight, and may even lead to prosecution for its malicious intent to undermine the credibility and integrity of the Bureau.”
It added that the bureau is “fully open to any formal investigation and welcome any legitimate inquiry to establish the truth” as it reaffirmed its “commitment to transparency, due process, and the rule of law.”
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