The Department of Justice said Rep. Leandro Leviste is not yet considered a “fugitive from justice,” contrary to an earlier statement by National Bureau of Investigation Director Melvin Matibag.
OIC Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Herbert Calvin Abugan said the DOJ is following the proper legal process before determining whether Leviste can be formally considered a fugitive from justice.
Abugan said Leviste must first be given the opportunity to appear before the court during the scheduled hearing before the next legal steps are determined.
Justice Secretary Fredderick Vida also said prosecutors will decide how the case will proceed and what legal measures may be taken.
These measures could include declaring Leviste a fugitive from justice and potentially canceling certain documents or travel privileges, according to Vida.
Meanwhile, Leviste’s spokesperson, lawyer Tony La Viña, said the congressman is scheduled to return to the Philippines and personally appear before the court for his bail proceedings.
La Viña said he could no longer discuss the case in detail because it is already sub judice, or under judicial consideration.
He also described the case against Leviste as relatively minor.
According to La Viña, the case is bailable for P72,000 and carries a relatively small possible penalty. He said Leviste is therefore not concerned about the case.
The differing statements from the DOJ and the NBI center on whether Leviste can already be classified as a fugitive from justice.
The DOJ said the determination must follow the appropriate legal process and that prosecutors will decide on the next steps.
Leviste’s camp, meanwhile, maintains that the congressman intends to return to the Philippines and face the court personally for his bail.
No further legal action was specified in the report beyond the possible measures identified by the justice secretary.
