NBI to file charges against Nievera

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will be forced to file criminal charges against singer Robert "Bert" Nievera, his wife Carol Hernandez, and other registered owners of Country Waffles restaurant for estafa, violation of anti-money laundering law and illegal issuance of securities.

A source from the NBI said the accused were summoned by the Bureau to shed light on the multi-million scam involving their company but they failed to show up.

The case stemmed from complaints from friends of Nievera that the company has failed to settle its financial obligations involving millions of pesos.

The source noted that Nievera was not named as one of the incorporators of Country Waffles restaurant. However, complainants claimed that he was always present whenever the restaurant owners would encourage their friends to invest in the business.

During the investigation, the NBI found out that the couple enticed their friends to invest in the business in the early part of 2001.

The investors were reportedly issued certificates of investment indicating that they are part owners of the restaurant. This, however, was not sanctioned by SEC.

Some of the complainants were reportedly showbiz personalities themselves, including Annabelle Rama, who had met with NBI Director Reynaldo Wycoco several times to seek assistance. — Cecille Suerte Felipe