MANILA, Philippines — Julian Ongpin, the last known companion of Bree Jonson who died last September 18, appeared at the Department of Justice on Friday for the preliminary investigation into the drug raps against him.
Prosecutor General Benedicto Malcontento confirmed this to reporters.
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“In today’s continuation of the preliminary investigation, the complainants (arresting officers and Scene of the Crime Operatives team) appeared as well as respondent Julian Ongpin and his counsels on record,” Malcontento said in a statement.
The DOJ-National Prosecution Service is currently handling the preliminary probe after regional prosecution requested the transfer “to assure the public and all concerned of a fair and impartial handling of the case.”
Ongpin, son of tycoon Roberto, is facing possession of illegal drugs complaint and was freed from detention by the inquest prosecutor after it was deemed that proceedings will be through preliminary investigation.
During the hearing earlier, Malcontento said Ongpin submitted his counter-affidavit for the complaint filed alleging possession of illegal drugs.
Authorities are investigating the death of Jonson, who was found unconscious in hostel room in San Juan, La Union last Saturday. She was later declared dead at the hospital.
Police found more than 12 grams of cocaine in the room Jonson and Ongpin shared and filed a complaint against the latter.
In the resumption of preliminary investigation on Friday, the PNP also filed supplemental affidavit. Ongpin and his counsels then requested for additional time to study and answer the latest allegations, Malcontento said.
The next proceeding will on October 9, for the submission of additional counter-affidavit and clarificatory hearing.
“If no new matters/issues are raised by the parties, the case will be submitted for resolution,” Malcontento added.
The PNP and the National Bureau of Investigation conducted separate autopsies on the body of Jonson.