MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Justice (DOJ) is considering filing plunder charges against four former bodyguards of businessman Co, according to Assistant Secretary and spokesperson Angelo Clavano.
Clavano made the disclosure in a brief statement, saying the case is under preliminary investigation. He did not provide further details, citing the need to protect the integrity of the proceedings.
The development stems from an ongoing probe into alleged anomalous transactions involving Co and his associates. The four former bodyguards were said to have acted as nominal owners or dummies in certain deals.
Plunder is a non-bailable offense under Philippine law, and if probable cause is found, the charges will be elevated to the Office of the Ombudsman or the Sandiganbayan.
Clavano assured the public that the DOJ is committed to ensuring a thorough and impartial review of the evidence. He also urged the respondents to avail themselves of the legal remedies available to them.