'Rape accused' Filipino comedian Vhong Navarro surrenders

A rape complaint has been filed against television host and comedian Ferdinand 'Vhong' Navarro. A second arrest warrant has been issued against the actor. Judge Loralie C. Datahan, Taguig City Regional Trial Court Branch 69, issued the order.

Judge Loralie C. Datahan, Taguig City Regional Trial Court Branch 69 in Philippines, issued an arrest warrant after the actor surrendered to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). He was granted bail subsequently on Monday for committing acts of lasciviousness.

NBI has detained Navarro as a rape case is non-bailable in the Revised Penal Code under Article 266-A of the Republic Act 8353.


Alma Mallonga, Vhong's lawyer, said Vhong got bail for acts of lasciviousness, and another warrant was issued for a rape case on the same day.

Vhong had to surrender to the NBI again because an arrest warrant was issued. His detention is being processed because of his voluntary surrender. Vhong's custody is with the NBI now.



The Department of Justice (DoJ) dismissed complaints of acts of lasciviousness and rape against Vhong in 2018 and 2020. However, the Court of Appeals' 14th Division reversed the decision. The Department of Justice (DoJ) said the complaints did not have probable cause. Navarro was accused of rape on January 17 and 22 in 2014 in an affidavit. CA ordered the Taguig City Prosecutor to file rape by sexual intercourse and acts of lasciviousness charges against Vhong.

FAQs

Q1. Why had the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) detained Vhong?
A1. NBI has detained Navarro as a rape case is non-bailable in the Revised Penal Code under Article 266-A of the Republic Act 8353.

Q2. What did the Department of Justice (DoJ) say about the complaint?
A2. The Department of Justice (DoJ) said the complaints did not have probable cause.