DOJ junks criminal raps vs Iglesia execs

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has junked the criminal charges filed against leaders of the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) by expelled minister Isaias Samson Jr. and his family.

In a resolution released on Monday, the DOJ dismissed the charges of harassment, illegal detention, threats and coercion filed against eight members of the INC council by Samson, his wife Myrna Dionela and son Isaiah.

Prosecutors Olivia Torevillas and Mark Roland Estepa found no probable cause in the charges after conducting preliminary investigation.

The fiscals junked the charges against Glicero Santos Jr., Radel Cortez, Bienvenido Santiago Sr., Mathusalem Pareja, Rolando Esguerra, Eraño Codera, Rodelio Cabrerra and Maximo Bularan Jr. for lack of evidence.

The DOJ said the complainants failed to prove their allegations.

“Samson failed to offer an iota of evidence on the matter of intimidation, confiscation of his passport, service vehicle, laptop, cellphone and other personal effects,” the DOJ resolution read.

In dismissing the charges, the DOJ said there was no evidence of physical harm or any form of intimidation against Samson or members of his family.

The DOJ also dismissed the complaint filed against the INC leaders by expelled member Jose Norlito Fruto. 

In a separate resolution, the same panel of prosecutors found no probable cause in Fruto’s complaint for illegal arrest and arbitrary detention.