Suspect in Ortega slay accuses NBI of human rights violation

MANILA, Philippines—One of the suspects in the death of Palawan radio journalists Dr. Gerry Ortega accused the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in Palawan of human-rights violation.

In his letter to Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chair Loretta Ann Rosales, Percival Lecias of Puerto Princesa City through his lawyer Rodolfo John Paul Palattao said he was “detained at the compound of the Palawan NBI from January 25 to March 2, 2011 against my will and through threats and intimidation.”

He added that “while I was at the NBI Palawan, a certain Special Investigator Cedric Caabay and other NBI personnel, forced [me] to sign statements implicating other suspects, specially one Arturo “Nonoy” Regalado, in the murder of Ortega.” Lecias identified certain NBI agents as Roger Susosco and Dundee Santos.

Lecias added that some group identified with Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn kept vigil outside the NBI ground, making him more fearful of his safety.

Palattao said he will ask Justice Secretary Leila De Lima to investigate the matter. The NBI is an attached agency of the DoJ.

Palattao added that they will also request for police protection for Lecias due to threats to his life.