MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) issued subpoenas to Batangas 1st District Rep. Leandro Leviste and former congressman Jacinto “Jing” Paras as it deepens its investigation into an alleged ₱5-million scheme to fabricate accusations against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag on Monday said the bureau believes Recto was the target of a character assassination campaign. Leviste and Paras were directed to appear before investigators on Thursday. He warned that the bureau would take appropriate legal action should either fail to comply.
The investigation stemmed from an entrapment operation at a five-star hotel in Malate, Manila, where authorities arrested a talent manager and rescued five women allegedly recruited for the operation.
Matibag said the talent manager admitted that he had been hired to recruit four women who would falsely accuse Recto of illegal drug use and sexual abuse. The women were allegedly promised ₱5 million in exchange for signing affidavits and making the accusations.
Investigators are tracing who orchestrated the alleged operation and whether other personalities were involved.
