Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. 蜜桃工作室 FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines鈥揋overnment prosecutors will insist that the US military man accused of killing a Filipina transgender should personally appear on Tuesday鈥檚 preliminary investigation.
鈥淒uring preliminary investigation, the usual process is for the respondent (on this case is Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton) to personally appear during preliminary investigation especially if he is required to submit a counter-affidavit,鈥� Justice Secretary Leila De Lima told reporters Monday.
鈥淗e [Pemberton] must appear. We see no reason why he will be an exception to the general rule,鈥� the Justice Secretary added.
While there were instances where they allow non-appearance during preliminary investigation, De Lima said it was only for compelling reason.
鈥淥n this case, I could not see any reason why he should not personally appear before the City Prosecutor.鈥�
鈥淭he prosecutor will not admit a counter-affidavit that was not personally subscribed before her office,鈥� De Lima said.
Pemberton is accused of killing Jeffrey 鈥淛ennifer鈥� Laude. He is facing a complaint for murder.
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