NBI probes Koko Pimentel over possible quarantine breach

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, April 1) — The National Bureau of Investigation is probing Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III over his possible breach of quarantine protocols.

“I understand Senator Pimentel is also being investigated,” NBI spokesperson Ferdinand Lavin told CNN Philippines on Wednesday.

He added that he is not sure when Pimentel would be summoned, considering that he still needs to be under quarantine.

Pimentel earlier drew flak after he accompanied his wife, Kathryna, who was about to give birth to their first child to Makati Medical Center despite having been tested for COVID-19.

Results later confirmed that he did contract the disease and potentially exposed a number of health workers at Makati Medical Center and staff at members-only supermarket S&R.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra said the NBI may conduct its own fact-finding investigation on the incident and ask Pimentel to explain his side if the Makati Medical Center or anyone else does not file a complaint.

While Makati Medical Center’s management denounced Pimentel, it did not directly say if it will file charges against the former Senate President. Pimentel subsequently said sorry, but the hospital only took note of his apology.

Senator Manny Pacquiao, his partymate who chairs the Senate Ethics Committee, said he can call a hearing to tackle any complaint that may be filed against Pimentel.

Legal experts have said that a string of criminal, administrative and civil charges may also be filed against Pimentel over his breach of quarantine protocols.