The chairperson of Cordillera Peoples Alliance (CPA) has submitted himself to the National Bureau of Investigation for security and to prove his innocence.
Following the offer of a P100,000 bounty by the Philippine National Police for his arrest, Windel Bolinget submitted himself to the NBI on Jan. 21 due to serious threats on his life.
Bolinget’s decision will also give him time to face the murder charges filed by the police against him in Tagum City, Davao del Norte last year.
“We would like to emphasize that this is in no way an act of surrender or an admission of guilt for the fabricated charge that the police filed against him. This is so he can have full access to all legal services in challenging his case, while under NBI’s protective custody,” CPA said in a statement.
Bolinget and nine other individuals were accused of killing Garito Tiklonay Malibato on March 22, 2018 in Barangay Gupitan, Kapalong, Davao del Norte.
The CPA said Bolinget has never been to the place.
“By submitting, Bolinget maintains his innocence and honors his earlier statement of challenging his case in due time as it was his intention when he learned of the warrant issued for his arrest. We challenge State security forces to show the same integrity and adhere to the rule of law,” the CPA stated.
The group said the PNP has not been observing due process with the recent news of abuse of power and “tokhang-style” extrajudicial killing in the pretext of “resisting arrest” or nanlaban (fought back).
“While in custody, we demand that Bolinget’s right as a detainee be given to him in full. The State will be responsible and accountable should any harm befall him while he is under their protection,” the statement added.
“We laud Bolinget’s bravery and integrity in staying true to his intent of facing this fabricated murder charge in a competent court despite the open threats to his safety,” the CPA added. – Ofelia C. Empian
April 25, 2024
