DOJ orders probe of Albay mayor's release

MANILA, Philippines - Chief State Prosecutor Claro Arellano ordered yesterday an investigation into the complaint of the Philippine National Police (PNP) against a Pasay City prosecutor who ordered the release of Malinao, Albay Mayor Avelino Ceriola despite evidence that he carried a fake gun ban exemption.

Arellano said he has directed Pasay City prosecutor Elmer Mitra to explain why his subordinate, assistant prosecutor Manuel Ortega, allowed Ceriola to be released from police custody.

“I have asked the prosecutor to explain and I already ordered… Mitra to conduct an investigation,” he said.

Arellano also assured the PNP that the National Prosecution Service still fully supports the campaign against loose firearms.

Ortega ordered Ceriola’s release pending further investigation despite police officers having presented the firearm and the papers required for the inquest, according to the PNP, which has filed administrative and criminal charges against Ortega.