In a recent radio interview, National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag firmly rejected accusations that he had been ordered to probe Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste. This statement comes in the wake of a human trafficking investigation that has drawn significant public attention.
Clarifying Allegations and Investigations
No one ordered me to do so. My commitment is to the law and to the NBI’s mandate. We follow the evidence, observe due process, and ensure that our investigations are conducted in accordance with the law.
Melvin Matibag, NBI Director
- NBI issued subpoenas to Leviste and former Negros Oriental Representative Jacinto Paras.
- The investigation connects to an anti-human trafficking operation that rescued a woman allegedly involved in a scheme against Recto.
The NBI's focus on Leviste and Paras stems from a witness who alleged that the rescued woman was hired to compromise Executive Secretary Ralph Recto's image. The purported scheme aimed to accuse Recto of serious misconduct, raising questions about the motivations behind such allegations.
Leviste has publicly criticized Matibag, sharing a message allegedly sent by the NBI chief praising his political aspirations. In response, Matibag acknowledged his previous positive view of Leviste but asserted that accountability must prevail.
Matibag insisted on the integrity of the investigative process, stating that everyone, regardless of their status, is subject to the law. He noted that Paras was the one who implicated Leviste during the inquiry.
Leviste has called for Recto to be summoned for questioning as part of the investigation, questioning the impartiality of the process.