Convicted Businessman Cedric Lee Transferred to New Bilibid Prison
In a recent development, convicted businessman Cedric Lee has been transferred to the custody of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) and is now at the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Reception and Diagnostic Center (RDC) in Muntinlupa City.
The transfer of Cedric Lee was confirmed by BuCor Director General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., who stated that Lee was turned over by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) around 9 p.m. on Friday.
As part of the standard operating procedure, Lee has been assigned prison number N224P-2117 and will undergo a series of procedures during his time at the RDC. He will initially stay in the quarantine cell for five days without any visiting privileges. This will be followed by a diagnostic procedure that includes medical, sociological, psychological, educational, and classification processes for a total of 55 days.
Deniece Milanese Cornejo and Simeon Palma Raz Also Transferred
Deniece Milanese Cornejo, another individual convicted in the same case, is currently at the RDC at the Correctional Institution for Women (CIW) in Mandaluyong City. She has been assigned prison number C224P-172.
Simeon Palma Raz, who was also convicted in the case, has been transferred to the RDC in Muntinlupa. He has been assigned prison number N224P-2079.
It is worth noting that the Bureau of Corrections is no longer accepting new inmates at the New Bilibid Prison due to an ongoing decongestion program. BuCor Director General Catapang has instructed the NBP Superintendent, Chief Inspector Roger Boncales, to determine the permanent placement of Lee and Raz, similar to any other newly committed individuals deprived of liberty (PDL).
Background on the Case
Cedric Lee, Deniece Milanese Cornejo, Simeon Palma Raz, and Ferdinand Guerrero (who is still at large) were sentenced to reclusion perpetua by a Taguig Regional Trial Court. The conviction was related to the serious illegal detention case filed by TV host and actor Ferdinand “Vhong” Navarro.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court also ordered the accused individuals to compensate Navarro with P100,000 for civil indemnity, P100,000 for moral damages, and P100,000 for exemplary damages. Furthermore, the bail bond of the accused was canceled.
During the promulgation, only Deniece Milanese Cornejo and Simeon Palma Raz were present. Cedric Lee later voluntarily surrendered to the NBI and expressed confidence in the appeal they plan to file, refuting the illegal detention allegation.
It is important to note that the transfer and placement of convicted individuals in correctional facilities are governed by local laws and regulations. The Bureau of Corrections follows a standard operating procedure to ensure the safety and well-being of both the inmates and the staff. The diagnostic procedures carried out during the initial period of confinement aim to assess the needs and risks associated with each individual, allowing for appropriate classification and treatment during their time in prison.
While Cedric Lee’s transfer to the New Bilibid Prison has been completed, the legal process and potential appeals will continue to unfold. It remains to be seen how the case will progress and what the final outcome will be for all parties involved.
Source: The Manila Times