MANILA, Philippines–The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has turned down the request for legal assistance of Peter Joemel Advincula who is claiming to be “Bikoy,” the hooded man in the controversial “Ang Totoong Narcolist” series of videos.
Advincula went to the IBP for legal assistance claiming there were threats on his life.
The IBP National has been criticized by its Davao chapter for allowing its main office to serve as a venue for Advincula, adding that his statement “reeked of political agenda.”
READ: IBP Davao questions IBP national on ‘Bikoy show’
The IBP Board of Governors maintained that it remains independent and denies keeping Advincula in its custody.
READ: After Bikoy’s visit, IBP says it remains independent
In its statement Wednesday, IBP, through its National Center for Legal Aid (NCLA) said that after evaluation, the organization decided to deny Advincula’s request.
The IBP said Advincula sought free legal assistance in the filing of charges against certain individuals, including candidates for elective positions for their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade.
“His application was duly processed just like any other request received by the NCLA,” read the IBP’s statement adding that denying Advincula’s request was in pursuant to NCLA’s Manual of Operations.
“In the pursuit of its mandate to provide access to justice to the poor and the marginalized, the IBP cannot be seen to be siding with or going against any candidate or political party,” the IBP said.
It added that the documents and communications provided shall remain privileged and confidential./muf
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