Robin Padilla counter-affidavit filing reset to Nov. 12 due to missing documents

Senator Robin Padilla was not able to file his counter-affidavit at the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday due to the lack of documents. Padilla’s submission of his counter-affidavit is now set for November 12, so that he can also swear to it. In a DZBB report from Tuesday Niu, the DOJ had wrapped up the first day of its preliminary investigation into the obstruction of justice charges filed against Padilla for allegedly aiding the escape of Sen. Bato dela Rosa. However, Padilla was unable to file his counter-affidavit. The Panel of Prosecutors noted that the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) lacked a few documents. As a result, the Panel of Prosecutors asked the PNP CIDG for additional requirements. The next preliminary investigation is on October 9, but Padilla will no longer attend, opting to have his lawyers represent him. Lawyer Jimmy Bondoc also arrived with Padilla at the DOJ; however, he said that he was representing another client in the same case. He did not disclose who his client was for privacy reasons. Outside of the DOJ, Padilla’s supporters held a demonstration. The senator spoke to them directly and thanked them. Sen. Bong Go was also at the DOJ to show his support for Padilla. Authorities attempted to issue Dela Rosa an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court for alleged crimes against humanity. Dela Rosa fled the Senate premises in the early morning of May 14, hours after a shooting incident took place in the Upper Chamber. Padilla has previously admitted to allowing Dela Rosa to hitch a ride in his car after the incident. —Jean Mangaluz/LDF, GMA News