Marikina: Two criminal complaints have been filed with the National Prosecution Service (NPS) against Marikina 1st District Representative Marcelino Teodoro, accusing him of acts of lasciviousness and sexual assault, as confirmed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
According to Philippines News Agency, DOJ spokesperson Assistant Secretary Mico Clavano disclosed that the complainants are female police officers who served as close-in security for Teodoro at different times. The complaints will undergo a case build-up and legal evaluation, as per Department Circular No. 20 (2023), to assess the sufficiency of evidence before any preliminary investigation is initiated. Clavano emphasized that the process is designed to ensure that any warranted action is based on a complete and substantiated record, while also assuring that Teodoro will be granted full due process.
For privacy and security reasons, the identities of the complainants have not been disclosed. The Marikina City Police Office has reassigned the complainants to the Philippine National Police national headquarters at Camp Crame to ensure their safety. Marikina Police Chief Colonel Michael Astrera emphasized the police's respect for due process and adherence to the rule of law.
Teodoro has denied the accusations, labeling them as baseless and politically motivated. He stated that the allegations are malicious, false, and intended to tarnish his reputation. Teodoro further suggested that the accusations are part of a politically motivated attack and mentioned that he has not yet received a copy of the complaints.
The Women and Children Protection Center (WCPC) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is coordinating with the PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) regarding the case. WCPC spokesperson Major Shari Vanneza Deseo confirmed that an investigation is underway and indicated that the WCPC is prepared to file a case if no action has been taken yet.