By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — The Office of the Ombudsman has directed Senators Alan Peter Cayetano and Robinhood “Robin” Padilla, along with former Acting Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Aplasca, to respond to an obstruction of justice complaint arising from the alleged escape of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa.
In separate orders issued by the Ombudsman, the respondents were given 15 days from receipt of the directive to submit their respective counter-affidavits. The period is non-extendible.
The Ombudsman warned that failure to comply within the prescribed period would result in the case being deemed submitted for resolution based solely on the available records.
“If the respondents do not file their counter-affidavits within the reglementary period despite due notice, or cannot be served with or refuse to receive this order, the complaint shall be deemed submitted for resolution and no further pleadings or documents shall be entertained,” the order stated.
The complaint was filed earlier this month by Francis Joseph Aquino Dee and several co-complainants, alleging that the respondents obstructed justice in connection with the reported “escape” of Dela Rosa while authorities were attempting to enforce legal processes against him.
The Ombudsman’s directive does not constitute a finding of liability. It is part of the preliminary investigation process, during which the respondents are given an opportunity to answer the allegations before the anti-graft office determines whether sufficient grounds exist to proceed with the case.
