IBP rejects ‘Bikoy’s’ request for legal aid
Credit to Author: Tempo Desk| Date: Wed, 08 May 2019 05:39:09 +0000
PETER Joemel Advincula, alias Bikoy.
The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) has turned down the request of Peter Joemel Advincula alias “Bikoy) for legal assistance in filing complaints against the family of President Duterte and senatorial bet Christopher “Bong” Go over allegations that they are involved in the narcotics trade.
“The Integrated Bar of the Philippines through its National Center for Legal Aid (NCLA) is declining the request for free legal assistance made by Peter Joemel Advincula (Bikoy),” said IBP president Abdiel Dan Elijah Fajardo in a statement.
“This decision was reached after a thorough evaluation of his application was conducted by the NCLA,” he added.
The IBP made its decision after Advincula held a press conference last Monday at the IBP head office in Pasig City and revealed he is “Bikoy” in the viral videos “Ang Totoong Narcolist” which accused the Duterte family and Go of their involvement in the illegal drugs trade.
“Mr. Advincula came to the IBP NCLA to request free legal assistance and representation in the filing of charges against certain individuals, including candidates for elective positions, because of their alleged involvement in the illegal drug trade. His application was duly processed just like any other request received by the NCLA,” Fajardo noted.
However, Fajardo explained that the NCLA determined that “Mr. Advincula may not be provided free legal assistance based on the standards provided for in the NCLA Manual of Operations in approving such requests.”
“In the pursuit of its mandate to provide access to justice to the poor and the marginalized, the IBP cannot be seen to be siding with or going against any candidate or political party,” he stressed.
In the meantime, Fajardo disclosed that “communications and documents submitted during consultation shall remain privileged and confidential.” (Jeffrey Damicog)