MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) said it is investigating possible charges against public officials as it examines the alleged connection between the May 13 shooting incident at the Senate and the escape of Sen. Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa from protective custody on May 14.
Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida said prosecutors have gathered statements from members of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), media personnel and CCTV footage as part of the ongoing probe.
According to Vida, the evidence reviewed so far indicates that sniper shots were fired from the fifth floor of the Senate building toward an identifiable NBI vehicle parked on the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) premises during the incident.
“At this stage, the investigation remains active and ongoing,” Vida said.
Asked whether investigators have identified specific persons of interest, Vida said no formal determination has been made but noted that several individuals mentioned in the initial findings are public officials.
“Based on the initial findings coming out, many of the personalities involved are public officials,” Vida said in Filipino.
The DOJ has not announced any charges and has not publicly identified potential respondents.
Vida said the department would continue the investigation based on the available evidence and legal procedures.
“What I can assure the public is that the department will pursue the matter professionally, objectively, and without fear or favor,” he said.
He also emphasized that investigators would follow due process throughout the inquiry.
“No individual is above the law, but equally important, no person should be judged before the evidence has been fully examined,” Vida said.
