The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently evaluating the complaint against seven individuals allegedly involved in the preparation of fabricated affidavits against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

Justice Secretary Frederick Vida said the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has formally submitted the results of its investigation to the DOJ. Among the NBI’s recommendations is the possible filing of qualified trafficking in persons charges against the identified suspects.

According to the initial NBI findings, several women were allegedly forced or persuaded to sign and execute false affidavits against Recto. The DOJ is now carefully reviewing the submitted documents and evidence to determine whether there is sufficient basis to elevate the complaint to a preliminary investigation.

Vida said the case remains under evaluation and could either proceed to preliminary investigation or be returned to the NBI for further investigation.

“Currently, before the DOJ, natin po kami sa evaluation stage and under the rules we have 10 days to evaluate. And to determine whether the case will proceed to its preliminary investigation or to dismiss the same and give it back to the NBI.”

The DOJ’s evaluation will determine the next legal steps in the complaint, including whether the evidence gathered by the NBI is sufficient to pursue charges against the seven individuals.