Trafficking charges against Leviste, six others referred to DOJ

The National Bureau of Investigation has filed a complaint for qualified human trafficking against Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste, former Negros Oriental Representative Jacinto "Jing" Paras, and five others, with the case now referred to the Department of Justice for prosecution.

According to the NBI investigation, the suspects allegedly conspired to offer women and sexual services to a government executive as part of a scheme to compromise and discredit the official. The investigation has been conducted over several months, with agents gathering evidence and testimonies from alleged victims.

The complaint is now under the jurisdiction of the DOJ, which will determine whether there is sufficient basis to file formal charges in court. Human trafficking cases in the Philippines carry severe penalties, with convictions potentially resulting in lengthy prison sentences.

Representative Leviste and Paras have not yet publicly responded to the allegations. The case marks a significant development in efforts by Philippine authorities to combat human trafficking, a crime identified as a priority issue by law enforcement agencies.