NBI files additional evidence, hold departure order motion over Socorro case

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) submitted additional evidence for its complaint against members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI) for trafficking and abuse of minors, among others, according to the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday.

This occurred during a clarificatory hearing at the DOJ on Monday, which was attended by SBSI leader Jey Rence Quilario, or “Senior Agila,” and other respondents. Some witnesses and victims were also present.

According to the agency, the NBI also filed a motion for a precautionary hold departure order against the 13 respondents involved in the complaint for trafficking, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, child marriage, and child abuse and exploitation.

The DOJ said the next hearing is on October 20.

“During this session, the Panel anticipates the filing of supplemental counter-affidavits and presentations of opposition to the motion for a Precautionary Hold Departure Order,” it said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the DOJ said the NBI adopted the investigation that was initially conducted by the Commission on Human Rights.

Justice Undersecretary Nicholas Felix Ty said the DOJ is eyeing to release the resolution of the complaints by mid-November.

The issue first came to light after Senator Risa Hontiveros in September said that more than 1,000 minors were being sexually abused by a religious “cult” in Socorro town, Surigao del Norte.

Shortly after, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla revealed that the National Bureau of Investigation in the CARAGA region filed complaints against more than 10 individuals.

This also prompted a Senate panel to hold an inquiry, where Quilario and three others were cited in contempt after repeatedly denying that child marriages took place at Sitio Kapihan, Surigao del Norte despite testimonies from victims.

This coming Saturday, a joint Senate committee will conduct an ocular visit to Sitio Kapihan to “produce a very credible committee report.”

Appeal for shelter

Meanwhile, the local government of Socorro is appealing to the national government for help to provide shelter and livelihood to SBSI members once they come down from the Sitio Kapihan.

According to a "24 Oras report," members must leave the mountain if the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) completely suspends the agreement.

“Isang senaryo for example is kung ma-cancel ‘yan, then they have to vacate the area. So lahat yan magiging concern ng ating local government unit,” said Nonito Tamayo, Regional Executive Director, DENR-Caraga.

The DENR suspended the agreement due to the group's violations, including the building of houses and structures in Sitio Kapihan, which is within the protected area.—KG, GMA Integrated News