Security concerns delay Palparan transfer to Bulacan jail

Retired Army Major General Jovito S. Palparan Jr. JOAN BONDOC

MANILA, Philippines—Justice Secretary Leila De Lima on Wednesday said retired General Jovito Palparan cannot be immediately transferred to the Bulacan Provincial Jail despite orders from the Malolos, Bulacan Regional Trial Court Branch 14.

De Lima said the Department of Justice is verifying the veracity of the threats to Palparan’s life.

“Of course, to be very responsible and professional about it, it’s best to verify the threat,” De Lima said.

She said she will ask the NBI to file a manifestation in court to inform them that it cannot immediately transfer Palparan.

Palparan is currently in the custody of the NBI after his arrest early morning Tuesday.

At a press conference last Tuesday, Palparan said he considered surrendering but he changed his mind, doubting if the government can protect him.

He said there are left leaning groups that already condemned him as “dead man walking.”

“We do want to comply with the court’s order, but there are constraints. General Palparan is under the custody of the NBI and we do not want anything to happen to him. We will make the proper

arrangements first for his security and then we will comply with the court,” De Lima said.

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