Hold departure order sought vs Socorro ‘cult’ leaders

MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has sought a precautionary hold departure order against the leaders of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI), who are facing charges amid allegations of child abuse, including rape and arranged child marriages.

The Department of Justice said the NBI filed the motion as it submitted additional evidence in connection with the complaint it is filing during a clarificatory hearing at the DOJ on Monday.

SBSI leader Jey Rence Quilario also known as “Senior Agila,” the other respondents and some of the supposed victims attended the hearing.

DOJ spokesperson Mico Clavano said the filing of supplemental counter-affidavits and presentation of opposition to the motion for a precautionary hold departure order are expected during the next hearing set on Oct. 20.

The DOJ said the NBI adopted the investigation conducted by the Commission of Human Rights.

Clavano said complainants may ask the prosecutor to file an application for a premature hold departure order with a regional trial court where the crime was committed.

The case was initially handled by the Surigao del Norte provincial prosecutor’s office, but was transferred to the DOJ main office as ordered by Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla.

The NBI recommended the filing of charges of qualified trafficking as well as kidnapping and serious illegal detention against Quilario and 12 other SBSI members.