DOJ urged to clarify ‘arrest’ of ‘Totoong Narcolist’ videos ‘uploader’

Former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano and Chel Diokno. INQUIRER FILE PHOTOS

MANILA, Philippines — Opposition senatorial candidates on Thursday called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to clarify the circumstances in the “arrest” of “Totoong Narcolist” videos “uploader” while reminding government of the rule of law and the person’s right to due process.

DOJ’s Office of the Cybercrime Officer-In-Charge Atty. Charito Zamora earlier said the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) had arrested the uploader of the controversial series of video for cyberlibel.

READ: ‘Totoong Narcolist’ uploader arrested – DOJ exec

“Kahit sino naman na aarestuhin ng ating pamahalaan ay talagang meron pa rin namang mga karapatan at sana naman kahit sino man ‘yun, hindi ko man kilala, ay igalang ‘yung karapatan ng sinasabi nilang hinuli nila,” human rights lawyer Chel Diokno said on the sidelines of a free legal mission for alleged victims of extrajudicial killings which he led at the Baclaran Redemptorist Church.

Former Solicitor General Florin Hilbay, meanwhile, said DOJ has to explain the offense by which the uploader was arrested for.

“Was it for cyberlibel? Why were they looking for drugs?” the lawyer asked in a statement.

For his part, Magdalo Rep. Gary Alejano said the government should be sure that they arrested the right person. He reiterated that the allegations of the anonymous “Bikoy” that the Dutertes are involved with a drug syndicate should nevertheless be investigated.

“The authorities’ actions on this matter (are) a test of sincerity of the government to eradicate illegal drugs. Hindi lamang mga maliliit na user at pushers ang pinatutungkulan dito kundi mga puno’t-dulo ng illegal drug trade sa loob ng bansa,” the former marine officer added. /kga