Estafa case vs 3 allegedly posing as senator’s staff dropped

The Pasay City Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 115 has dismissed the estafa case against three individuals accused of posing as staff members of Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian.

Pasay RTC Judge Edilwasif Baddiri ruled that there was insufficient evidence to convict Dina Joson Castro, Ma. Luisa Barlan and Helen Remolador of the crime and directed the National Bureau of Investigation to release them from detention.

However, the court ruled that the extortion raps against Ryan Lester Dino, also known as Davis Luis Tan, and Carlo Africa Maderazo will proceed.

The two suspects were apprehended in a sting operation on Nov. 20, after they allegedly claimed to be staff of Gatchalian and could facilitate a contract for the supply of aggregates for a reclamation project in Pasay City.

In a statement emailed to Inquirer.net, Emille Joson, youngest sister of Joson Castro and Barlan, said she was very happy with the court’s decision. “We should respect it. The truth will always prevail.”

Their lawyer, Atty. Vladimir Bugaring, also issued this statement: “This order just shows that my clients have no participation on the alleged scam. The order, even after requiring the prosecution through the NBI and the complainants, found lack of probable cause to hold my clients for trial. Justice is in the air.” —Russel P. Loreto

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