Bantag subpoena served at his Caloocan address

Suspended BuCor chief Gerald Bantag. (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO)

MANILA, Philippines — The subpoena ordering suspended Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) director general Gerald Bantag to attend next week the formal investigation proceedings into the killings of broadcaster Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa and New Bilibid Prison inmate and alleged conspirator Cristito “Jun Villamor” Palaña, has been deemed served, according to a state prosecutor.

Senior Assistant State Prosecutor Charlie Guhit said the subpoena was served at Bantag’s last known address in Caloocan.

However, he said the barangay captain informed the subpoena server that Bantag has no longer been staying there since his appointment as BuCor chief.

“The subpoena, insofar as the prosecution is concerned, is deemed served,” Guhit said.

Bantag’s lawyer earlier said they are ready to receive the subpoena in Baguio City.

In the subpoena, Bantag was ordered to appear in the preliminary investigation hearings on Nov. 23 and Dec. 5. He was also ordered to submit his counter-affidavits.

—TINA G. SANTOS

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