The government’s prosecutorial arm is in a quandary on the legal implications of the dismissal of case against former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes for the 2011 murder of environmentalist and broadcaster Gerardo Ortega despite Malacañang’s pronouncement that it will appeal the case. Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II could not provide a definite response on the government’s next step following the Court of Appeals’ decision clearing Reyes. “The filing of an appeal depends on the CA ruling – if it will constitute double jeopardy,” Aguirre said Monday in a text message to reporters. In clearing Reyes, the appeals court cited lack of evidence.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer January 08, 2018 11:15 UTC