Remulla: Camp Crame not an option for detention, Revilla surrender guns too
By Chito Chavez
Former senator Bong Revilla prepares to undergo the booking procedures after his surrender at the Philippine National Police headquarters at Camp Crame in Quezon City. (contributed photo)
The detention facility for high-profile personalities inside Camp Crame in Quezon City will no longer be an option for former senator Bong Revilla, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Jonvic Remulla said.
In a press briefing, Remulla said the facility is set for demolition this month to give way to the construction of the new infrastructure
“We will be closing the Custodial Center because there will be a new building. It’s about to be condemned," said Remulla.
The Sandiganbayan 3rd Division has already issued an order detaining Revilla at the new jail facilities in Barangay Payatas, Quezon City but the camp of the former senator is seeking his detention to Camp Crame where he was detained also for corruption-related cases.
Revilla went to Camp Crame to surrender at around 8:30 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 19, and was immediately subjected to standard booking and custodial procedures.
Remulla also assured that no special treatment will be given to Revilla, saying the former senator will be treated like other persons under government custody.
The call
Remulla revealed that Revilla personally called him after learning of the issuance of the arrest warrant against him.
“Tumawag siya sa akin kahapon sabi ko best na mag-surrender ka na (He called me yesterday. I told him that it would be best for him to surrender),’’ Remulla said.
Like any other detainee, Remulla said Revilla underwent standard procedures and was read his rights upon arrival.
“He (Revilla) was made to go through the entire process kung paano matanggap ng isang voluntary surrender (He was made to go through the entire process required on how a voluntary surrender is dealt with),” Remulla explained.
Firearms surrender
As part of the procedure, Remulla said that Revilla yielded his 20 long and short licensed firearms.
He said Revilla has no option but to surrender the guns since it is part of the rules and regulations of gun ownership.
"He is no longer entitled to own and operate firearms. Since he will be detained, he will no longer be able to be in possession of those firearms," said Remulla.
He said failure to surrender those firearms may lead to police operations as they will be considered as loose guns which is prohibited and punishable by law.