The government filed criminal cases against over 20 leaders and members of the Socorro Bayanihan Services Inc. (SBSI), a religious group accused of illegal activities.
The cases were filed in Manila and include qualified trafficking in persons, facilitation of child marriage, solemnization of child marriage, and child abuse.
The Department of Justice (DOJ) said the cases would be tried in Manila or another venue to avoid interference.
The DOJ had earlier asked the Supreme Court to move the cases to its main office, saying that Senator Risa Hontiveros’ privilege speech on SBSI had elevated the issue to national importance.
Child victims and former members of SBSI testified at a Senate inquiry about the abuse they experienced in the group.
Quilario, SBSI Vice President Mamerto Galanida, and leaders Janeth Ajoc and Karren Sanico Jr. have denied the allegations of abuse and defended child marriages.
The Senate ordered the detention of Quilario, Galanida, Ajoc, and Sanico after lawmakers were dissatisfied with their defenses during a joint committee hearing.
Source: PhilNews24 | November 7, 2023
