NBI
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NBI rebuts Defensor allegations on alleged beating, detention of Zaldy Co aide

Alvin Murcia

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has firmly denied allegations made by former Quezon City Congressman Mike Defensor that John Paul Estrada — aide to resigned Ako Bicol representative Zaldy Co — and his wife were beaten, illegally detained, or secretly transported to Chile.

In a press statement issued Monday, the bureau described the accusations as “unfounded, unsupported by evidence, and purely speculative.”

It stressed that no complaints, medical reports, or incident records support claims that Estrada or his wife suffered physical harm, nor is there any record suggesting they were held under NBI custody.

The NBI also confirmed that it has coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration and is awaiting official confirmation on the alleged travel of Estrada and his spouse.

The agency further denounced “any false, malicious, or unverified statements intended to undermine the credibility and integrity of our institution,” reiterating its commitment to transparency, due process, and the rule of law. It said it will cooperate with any legitimate investigation to ascertain the facts.

The bureau also urged Defensor to present verifiable evidence, warning that “absent any credible proof, these allegations remain unfounded, cannot be given weight, and may even lead to prosecution for their malicious intent.”