Judge grants Gatdula protection, but not amparo

MANILA, Philippines – A Manila regional trial court (RTC) judge granted yesterday a request by former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Magtanggol Gatdula for a temporary protection order (TPO) after the court found sufficient proof there are threats against him.

Judge Silvino Pampilo Jr. said “any government agency, accredited person or private institution of petitioner’s choice shall provide the necessary security for the protection of the petitioner and his immediate family.”

Pampilo said Gatdula should inform the court on the action he has taken within five days after receiving the order.

The judge issued the order after Gatdula’s camp presented two witnesses who said there were armed men, who identified themselves as from the NBI, at the New Era University looking for the former NBI chief. Gatdula, an Iglesia ni Cristo member, frequently visits the INC-run school.

“Based on the testimonies of the witnesses, there really exist threats against the life, liberty and security of the petitioner,” Pampilo said.

Pampilo, however, said Gatdula’s petition for a writ of amparo has not yet been granted.

In seeking a TPO and a writ of amparo, Gatdula alleged that Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and NBI deputy director Reynaldo Esmeralda want to frame him for the Feb. 21 ambush on Esmeralda.

Pampilo said whether or not the threats were upon the orders of De Lima and Esmeralda, only Gatdula can answer the question. He noted if there is any intent on the part of the would-be perpetrator, he will not announce his plans.