Ex-INC minister sought INC’s help, was not held against his will, says ex-solon

Ex lawmaker Arnulfo Fuentebella. INQUIRER file photo

Seeking to assure the family of former Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) minister Lowell Menorca II that the latter was safe, former House Speaker and Camarines Sur Rep. Arnulfo Fuentebella said on Friday that it was “unfortunate” that the leadership of the INC was being accused of holding Menorca against his will when it was Menorca who had requested the INC officials for permission to stay in the INC central compound.

“I believe this is just a misunderstanding because it’s the other way around. Lowell Menorca sought permission to stay at the INC compound together with his wife and daughter because of threats to his person,” said Fuentebella.

The former solon added that out of concern for Menorca’s safety, INC officials granted the request, which is why they were puzzled to learn that Menorca’s brother and sister-in-law went to the Supreme Court (SC) last Wednesday to ask that they issue writs of amparo and habeas corpus.

A writ of amparo is a remedy available to any person whose right to life, liberty and security has been violated or threatened. A writ of habeas corpus is a legal action sought on behalf of a person who has been unlawfully detained.

In their petitions, Menorca’s brother Anthony and his sister-in-law Jungko Otsuka alleged that Lowell, his wife Jinky, daughter Yurie, and househelp Abbegail Yanson were being held against their will by officials of the INC.

Fuentebella said that as a result of these “unfair and baseless” allegations, INC officials “have now requested Lowell Menorca and his family to leave the INC compound” to avoid any more confusion regarding their status.

According to the Bicolano leader, the Menorcas are now residing in Fairview, Quezon City.

“That should put an end to the speculation and unjustified suspicions raised by the petition. The concern of Lowell’s family, while understandable, was unwarranted. He is safe and sound, and that is what matters to everyone involved, including the leadership of the INC,” Fuentebella added.

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