Prosecution waiting for Matobato’s plea

THE Davao City Prosecution Office is still waiting for the furnished copy of the request for the transfer of court filed by the legal counsel of self-proclaimed Davao Death Squad member, Eduardo Matobato.

The prosecutor incharge of Matobato’s case, Prosecutor Joy Bernales Largo, told reporters yesterday that they have yet to receive a copy of the request of the accused to transfer court proceedings in Manila for the illegal possession of firearms charges previously filed against the accused.

She said that based on the general procedures, the high court may decide to ask for the prosecution’s reply on the grounds of the accused why he wants to transfer the court procedure on the case.

Largo also said that it is part of due process of law to ask for the prosecution to reply in such request.

Based on the previous interview, Atty. Jude Sabio, Matobato’s legal counsel said that they intend to transfer the hearing for the clients’ safety as the accused is at risk especially that he is testifying against President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Prosecution admitted though that despite the fact that a transfer is sought by the accused, they are still expecting that the scheduled arraignment of Matobato at the Davao City Municipal Trial Court in Cities-Branch 3 (MTCCBranch 3) will push through this November 3, 2016.

Last Monday, Atty. Sabio already filed the request of transfer of court before the Supreme Court Administration office. KVC