The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said that the closure order issued by the Pasig City government against Bleu Hotel does not mean the case is already final.
According to the agency’s statement posted in its official Facebook page, “all parties are entitled to the full protection of the law, including the opportunity to answer the charges, present evidence, and undergo proper judicial proceedings before any final determination of liability is made.”
The NBI said that human trafficking is among the most heinous crimes under Philippine law and that any establishment that is used as a venue for such activity must be held accountable in accordance with the law.
“It is also important to underscore that under existing laws, accountability extends beyond those directly managing day-to-day operations. Owners, incorporators, and those with legal and beneficial control over establishments may be held liable when their businesses are used as instruments of trafficking,” the NBI said.
The agency acknowledged that the Pasig City government’s move to issue a closure order on the establishment shows the government’s firm stance against all forms of exploitation. The closure order also warns commercial establishments that “business permits and corporate structures do not shield anyone from liability when unlawful activities are involved.”
In an earlier statement, the NBI explained that the raid conducted at the Chicago Family KTV bar was done “in full compliance with established legal procedures and in close inter-agency coordination.” The case against the said establishment is also ongoing, and the agency will be filing additional charges against other individuals and entities in coordination with the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking of the Department of Justice.