NBI men cheer: ‘Spoiled brats’ returning to Bilibid

Agents of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) feel relieved that the high-profile convicts temporarily under their custody will soon be returning to New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

The transfer was announced by NBI Director Virgilio Mendez during Monday’s flag ceremony, drawing applause from the agents.

One of the prisoners, George Sy, who was serving a life sentence, died of colon cancer in May at Jose Reyes Memorial Medical Center in Manila.

The other 18 inmates—Peter Co, Amin Imam Boratong, Michael Ong, Willy Sy, Noel Martinez, Eugene Chua, Chua Sam Li, Vincent Sy, Joel Capones, Herbert Colangco, Clarence Dongail, Tom Chua, Rommel Capones, Jojo Baligad, Willy Chua, Jacky King Sy, Herman Agojo and Benjamin Marcelo—would be moved back to Bilibid from the NBI headquarters in Manila on Friday, the Inquirer learned.

According to an NBI agent who asked not to be named, guarding the convicts affected the bureau’s efficiency and daily operations as it  required “at least 40 agents” to man various posts around their headquarters on Taft Avenue.

The agent said that while they did not complain about the task which started in December, they were happy to be relieved of this responsibility.

“They are spoiled brats who still enjoy luxurious lives despite being convicted, though [their privileges] were curtailed when they were moved to the NBI,” the agent said.

Upon their return to the NBP, the convicts will be held in the newly renovated Building 14 inside the maximum security compound, according to earlier statements from Justice Secretary Leila de Lima.

Designed for up to 100 inmates, the building also has a section for prisoners with mental problems.

The 19 inmates were transferred to the NBI detention facility in December after a series of raids exposed their luxurious lifestyle inside Bilibid. Found inside their living quarters or “kubol” were appliances, drugs, cash and jewelry, a Jacuzzi, musical instruments and sex toys.  Other quarters also housed a strip bar and a recording studio.–Nancy C. Carvajal