NBI Under Investigation After Controversial Pasig Raid
Ombudsman Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered an investigation into the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) following a raid on a KTV bar and hotel in Pasig City, where several alleged VIP guests were reportedly found, including Wack Wack Golf and Country Club President Lawrence N. Tan.
During his weekly radio program “Executive Session,” Remulla mentioned a man seen in a viral video exiting a hotel room with a woman following behind. He said he was informed that the individual was the president of the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club. He also questioned why no case had been filed by the NBI and suggested that the agency itself should be investigated.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag, who led the April 21 operation, earlier explained that some individuals were released after it was determined they were only drinking, while others remained under investigation. He also said that the man in the video was identified as a Taiwanese national who had already been arrested. Matibag clarified that Lawrence N. Tan was not arrested and was not charged in connection with the raid.
The NBI filed charges of qualified trafficking and violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act against 26 individuals linked to the operation. Among those charged were the wife and son of former Congressman Mike Defensor, who were reportedly connected to the ownership of the establishment. However, Defensor and his wife strongly denied the accusations, saying they were being targeted due to political pressure.
The raid took place at the Chicago Family KTV and Bleu Hotel located at Chicago Cliffpoint Square inside the CW Home Depot compound along Julia Vargas Avenue in Barangay Ugong, Pasig City. Authorities said the operation was conducted after reports that the place was allegedly being used as a venue for illegal activities involving sex-for-hire services.