Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 18) — Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro on Wednesday said they already filed perjury and grave slander charges against environmental activists Jonila Castro and Jhed Tamano before the Department of Justice.
Teodoro said the cases were filed two weeks ago.
“We have already filed charges against these two. And I was informed that subpoenas were already issued against them for preliminary investigation for perjury and grave slander,” he said.
During a press conference, Castro and Tamano accused the military of abducting and detaining them despite earlier claims of authorities that they voluntarily surrendered.
They sought protective writs from the Supreme Court against members of the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police (PNP), and some government agencies.
Teodoro insisted the two are members of the New People’s Army and they deliberately lied to shame the government.
“I will not allow serious processes as a theater to shame the AFP or anybody,” he stressed. “I would like the military to take full responsibility for their actions. In this case, I am sure no wrongdoings were done.”
In September, the Philippine Army said they would pursue legal remedies against Castro and Tamano, saying they “acted in good faith” in helping both activists.
