By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has found probable cause to charge lawyer Levi Baligod and 18 individuals linked to former congressman Zaldy Co with multiple counts of cyberlibel and perjury over online allegations accusing several public figures of receiving money allegedly sourced from controversial flood control funds.
DOJ spokesperson Jose Dominic “Polo” Martinez said the department approved the filing of criminal informations after prosecutors concluded that sufficient evidence exists to support the charges and warrant trial before the appropriate courts.
Baligod will face four counts of cyberlibel—three jointly with the 18 respondents and one filed against him individually. Prosecutors, however, did not recommend a perjury charge against the lawyer.
The 18 respondents, identified by authorities as alleged former associates of Co, were indicted on six counts of cyberlibel and four counts of perjury.
According to the DOJ, the criminal cases will now be filed before the proper courts, while several other complaints arising from the same investigation were dismissed after prosecutors found insufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case.
The complaints were initiated by former senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Mamamayang Liberal Party-list Rep. Leila de Lima, Bureau of Corrections Director Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., former National Security Adviser Eduardo Año, and Fr. Flaviano Villanueva.
The cases stem from statements and online posts alleging that the complainants received bags or luggage containing cash supposedly taken from flood control funds allegedly connected to Co. Prosecutors said their findings were based on the standard required during a preliminary investigation, which determines whether enough evidence exists to justify the filing of criminal charges.
The DOJ emphasized that its ruling is not a determination of guilt but a finding of probable cause. The respondents will have the opportunity to answer the charges as the cases proceed through the judicial process in accordance with due process and existing laws.
ia/xf
