The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has referred to the Department of Justice (DOJ) its obstruction of justice case against Sen. Robin Padilla and five others over the alleged escape of Sen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa from the Senate premises on May 14.
CIDG director Maj. Gen. Robert Morico II said the case was formally transmitted to the DOJ on May 26.
“We referred it formally on May 26,” Morico told reporters during a press briefing at Camp Crame on Thursday.
The case stemmed from allegations that Padilla and several others helped facilitate Dela Rosa’s exit from the Senate complex. Authorities earlier said Dela Rosa, who had been under Senate protective custody, left the premises during the security commotion that unfolded at the time.
Among those named in the complaint was Padilla’s uncle, Virgilio Carino, whose residence in Angeles City, Pampanga, was raided by CIDG operatives on Wednesday morning.
Also included was a female security officer of Padilla, whom Morico described as a former military officer and former foreign service officer at the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Morico said the CIDG based its referral on evidence gathered by investigators on the ground.
“We based our findings on facts that we gathered on the ground. We’re evidence-based,” he said.
The CIDG chief also rejected the possibility that Dela Rosa’s exit was accidental or spontaneous, saying investigators found indications of prior coordination.
“It is not incidental. It is not a mere hitch ride. It is well-planned, well-coordinated because there is a backup vehicle,” Morico said.
While the findings have already been submitted to the DOJ, Morico said the investigation remains ongoing.