Bantag, Zulueta face new criminal raps for torture of 2 Bilibid gang leaders

Suspended BuCor chief Gerald Bantag (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)

MANILA, Philippines — Another criminal case will be filed against former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) officials Gerald Bantag and Ricardo Zulueta, this time for the torture of two inmates of the New Bilibid Prison (NBP).

In a resolution by the state prosecutors dated May 2, Bantag has been indicted for two counts of physical and psychological torture under Republic Act 9745 or the Anti-Torture Act of 2009. Meanwhile, Zulueta will be charged as an accessory.

The case was due to the complaint of two gang leaders–Ronald S. Usman of “Batang Mindanao” and Jonathan Escopete (previously identified as Jonathan Cañte) of “Batang Cebu.”

Usman said Bantag stabbed his right palm using a double-bladed knife, while Escopete said Bantag slashed his shirt with a Kris knife, then pointed at his chest causing it to bleed.

Five inmate “kumanders” from the Maximum Security area witnessed the incident.

The case will be filed before the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court.

Meanwhile, the case of grave misconduct has been referred to the Department of Justice’s Technical Division for proper action.

Both Bantag and Zulueta have standing warrants for their arrests for the death of Bilibid inmate Jun Villamor and broadcaster Percival Mabasa or Percy Lapid.

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JPV