National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) director Melvin Matibag lamented the smear operations he said are being employed to destroy political rivals, saying, ‘This is so sad’

The NBI chief stressed that while the allegations are still being investigated, weaponizing false accusations for political ends, if established, is a troubling development that should not be tolerated in a democratic society.

He reiterated that all individuals named in the investigation will be afforded due process and that no conclusions have yet been reached regarding their liability.

Matibag said this amid the bureau’s probe into a purported plot to frame Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

He said it is disturbing that some people would allegedly go to great lengths to malign public officials simply because of political differences.

“This is deeply saddening. It is a troubling sign. We have reached a point where stories are being fabricated to discredit people who do not share the same political beliefs or support the same president,” Matibag said.

Recto targeted?

His statement came after the NBI disclosed that its investigation into a suspected human trafficking operation allegedly uncovered a separate scheme to implicate Recto through fabricated allegations.

The bureau has expanded its investigation, with Matibag announcing that subpoenas will be issued to Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste and former Negros Congressman Jacinto “Jing” Paras.

The bureau is also looking into claims that lawyers allegedly helped prepare affidavits and concoct criminal complaints against the Executive Secretary.