DOJ Chief Remulla's Son Has Been Acquitted of His P1.3-Million Illegal Drug Possession Charge
The Las Piñas Regional Trial Court Branch 197, which handled the case of Department of Justice (DOJ) Crispin "Boying" Remulla's son, Juanito Jose Remulla III, acquitted the latter of possession of illegal drugs, it was announced on Friday (January 6).
Talking to INQUIRER.net, Jose Christopher “Kit” Belmonte, who is part of Remulla III's legal team, confirmed the news. Another one of the younger Remulla's lawyers, Pearlito Campanilla, also told reporters that they were "pleased" with the verdict. He, however, stressed that the DOJ chief's son looks to rebuild his reputation from here.
“Wherefore, premises considered, accused Juanito Jose Remulla III y Diaz is acquitted of the crime of violation of Section 11, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, on the ground of reasonable doubt,” read the 34-page decision.
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Back in October, the 38-year-old Remulla III was reportedly caught with more than 900 grams of "kush," a variety of high-grade marijuana, in Barangay Talon, Las Piñas City. It was estimated to be worth roughly P1.3 million, according to authorities.
At the time, the Justice Chief said of the arrest: "I am both a father and the Secretary of Justice, roles that I take very seriously. We all know about unconditional love, but at 38 years old, he will have to face his predicament as a fully emancipated child. I have to abide by the Oath of Office I took when I assumed this position."
Calls for the father's resignation came soon after. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos, Jr., meanwhile, reassured the public of his confidence in the embattled chief. In November, Remulla III pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Illegal drug possession of at least 500 grams and importation is a non-bailable offense under the Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Remulla III, nevertheless, has a pending complaint for illegal narcotics importation and customs law violations with the Pasay City Prosecutor’s Office.
