Lawyer: "Send subpoena to UK"

CEBU, Philippines - Lawyer Rameses Victorius Villagonzalo is challenging the subpoena issued by the investigating panel of the kidnapping with murder case for respondent Ian Charles Griffiths.

Villagonzalo appeared in court yesterday with Bella Ruby Santos, partner of Griffiths, to file a formal entry of appearance for Griffiths.

Villagonzalo said he is challenging the issuance of subpoena against Griffiths as the latter has no Philippines address.

“Ian is a resident and citizen of the United Kingdom hence subpoena should be served upon him at his UK residence. As far as he is concerned, no subpoena from this office has been served at his UK residence at this point in time,” reads Villagonzalo’s entry of appearance.

Villagonzalo said the subpoena will be sent to UK.

Earlier, Prosecutor Annabelle Robles told media that they cannot issue a subpoena outside of their jurisdiction and they already issued subpoena against Griffiths in his last known address in barangay Inayagan, Naga City.

But Villagonzalo said Griffiths has no Philippines address, and added, “Then it’s not our problem, it’s the problem of the prosecutors to send subpoena against Griffiths in UK and let them use international law.”

“We will not help the state and the Ellah Joy Task Force and Criminal Investigation and Detective Group (CIDG) to prosecute our client,” he added.

Villagonzalo also asked for forensic examination and for clarificatory hearing.

“In order to be able to properly defend themselves and in the interest of substantial justice and fair play, respondents seeking for forensic examination of recovered items along with the body of Ellah Joy,” read the omnibus motion.

Villagonzalo added they will likewise move for clarificatory hearing to question the witnesses of the CIDG whose affidavit is attached in the complaint. (FREEMAN)