PNP files illegal possession of firearms, explosives rap vs Casambre couple

SAN PEDRO CITY – The Philippine National Police on Saturday filed a case of illegal possession of firearms and explosives against National Democratic Front of the Philippines (NDFP) political consultant Rey Claro Casambre and his wife, Patricia Cora.

Kristina Conti, one of the counsels of the couple, said the Casambres underwent inquest proceedings at the Bacoor City Prosecutor’s Office, a day following their arrest.

“We’re hoping (the prosecutor) would drop the case of constructive possession (at least) against Mrs. Casambre,” Conti said in a phone interview Saturday afternoon as the proceedings went on before chief city prosecutor Johnny Ompong.

Constructive possession means the evidence, in this case, the firearms and explosives, were not found physically on the accused.

The Casambres, through their counsels, however, maintained that the firearms and explosives were planted.

The couple, who also worked with the nongovernment Philippine Peace Center, was arrested past midnight Friday as they were on their way home to Bacoor City.

The police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) said Rey faced arrest warrants for murder and attempted murder in Lupon, Davao Oriental.

During the police search, the police said they recovered a .45 caliber gun, a fragmented grenade, a detonating cord, and several bullets.

Casambre is the fourth NDFP consultant arrested this year as the government peace negotiations with the Communist Party of the Philippines failed to prosper.

The couple is set to be brought back to the CIDG-NCR headquarters in Camp Crame where they have been detained.