Politics · Philippines Bureau
DOJ inquiry into Senate shooting incident enters final phase
The Department of Justice investigation into the May 13 incident that resulted in gunfire inside the Senate chamber is nearing conclusion, with former Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Ranada Aplasca and two others having submitted their legal responses.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA—The Department of Justice probe into the direct assault complaint related to the May 13 Senate chamber shooting incident has advanced significantly with the submission of counter-affidavits by the respondents. Former Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Ranada Aplasca filed his counter-affidavit on Wednesday as one of three individuals under investigation in connection with the incident that saw gunshots discharged within the legislative chamber, according to DOJ Spokesperson Polo Martinez.
The filing of counter-affidavits represents a critical stage in the DOJ's inquest process, allowing respondents to formally present their version of events and legal arguments before the department determines whether to proceed with criminal charges. The submission signals that the investigation is moving toward its conclusion, though no timeline for the DOJ's final determination has been publicly announced.
The May 13 incident marked an unprecedented security breach within the Senate, triggering immediate investigations across multiple government agencies and drawing significant public attention. The circumstances surrounding the gunfire discharge and the individuals involved remain subjects of ongoing official review.