The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has completed its investigation into the alleged “honey trap” plot against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and recommended the prosecution of seven people for qualified human trafficking.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the case records, including affidavits, evidence and supporting attachments, were completed and would be transmitted to the Department of Justice for preliminary investigation.
“Yes, nandito na. Nai-ready na natin, kumpleto na ang affidavit of investigation conducted by the regional office of the National Capital Region. Kumpleto, nandito na ang ebidensya and attachments,” Matibag said.
The NBI recommended prosecution of Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste, former Negros congressman Jacinto “Jing” Paras, four lawyers of the Rondain and Mendiola Law Firm, and talent manager Lito de Guzman.
The lawyers were identified as Orlando E. Mendiola, Ruy Alberto S. Rondain, Patrick L. Criaga, and Josemilio Manuel Z. Apostol.
Matibag said the respondents would face charges for violation of Section 4(a) of Republic Act No. 9208, or the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003, in relation to Section 6(c), covering offenses committed on a large scale and/or by a syndicate, as amended by RA 10364.
“So we will file this to the National Prosecution Service (NPS) of the Department of Justice for preliminary investigation,” Matibag said.
The alleged offenses were committed on July 15 and July 26, 2026 in Quezon City.
Matibag said investigators had found sufficient evidence and the elements of qualified human trafficking were present based on their investigation.
“Ang findings natin, they’re guilty of supposed to be committed qualified human trafficking. Nandudon lahat ang elements,” he said.
The NBI probe stemmed from the alleged plot to entrap Recto through a “honey trap.”
Asked if investigators uncovered other matters during the probe, Matibag said the evidence had already been consolidated and the investigation was complete.
“Well lumabas naman, nakita naman ang ebidensya. Sabi ko nga the last time we spoke, within 10 days mabubuo namin ito. So tuloy na ito, tapos na,” he said.
“This afternoon, we’ll bring it to the NPS,” he added.#