DOJ summons Brown, promoter

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has summoned American hip-hop singer Chris Brown and his promoter John Michael Pio Roda on the $1-million estafa charge filed against them by the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC).

In a subpoena issued yesterday, the DOJ required Brown and Roda or their representatives to appear for preliminary investigation. Investigating Assistant State Prosecutor Christine Marie Buencamino has set the hearing on Friday at 2 p.m.

“You are hereby warned that failure on your part to comply with the subpoena shall be considered as a waiver of your right to furnished copies of the complaint, supporting affidavits, and other documents, as well as to examine all other evidence submitted by the complainant,” read the two-page subpoena.

It was served at Roda’s office in Legaspi Village, Makati City.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima earlier said that while Brown was allowed to leave the country on Friday, the preliminary investigation would still proceed even if Brown opts not to participate since such proceeding is “not a compulsory process.”