MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) confirmed on Wednesday, December 4 that it has received a court order from the Pasay Regional Trial Court (RTC) for the release of actress and businesswoman Neri Miranda.
The BJMP has not yet finalized her release as of writing. She was still confined in a hospital as of writing.
“We have to conduct verification for pending cases and warrant. After our standard procedure on release and if cleared, we will release her as soon as possible,” BJMP spokesperson Jayrex Bustinera said in a statement.
Meanwhile, Miranda’s co-counsel, Aureli Sinsuat, confirmed that Branch 112 of the Pasay City RTC granted their motion to quash the actress’ warrant of arrest. Sinsuat added that Miranda’s case is currently pending reinvestigation by the Office of the City Prosecutor.
“We appreciate the Court’s decision, which underscores Neri’s constitutional right to due process. The reinvestigation will provide an opportunity for Neri to respond to the allegations against her. We are hopeful that the reinvestigation will clear Neri of any wrongdoing in the Dermacare/Beyond Skin Care Solutions case,” Sinsuat said, expressing hope that this development signifies the fair and just resolution of the actress’ legal battle.
On November 27, it was reported that Miranda had been arrested on November 23 at the basement parking area of a Pasay City mall for estafa and 14 counts of violation of the Securities Regulation Code, otherwise known as Section 28 of Republic Act 8799. This law prohibits individuals from buying, selling, or acting as salesmen, dealers, or brokers without proper registration with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
On November 27, a jail officer confirmed to ABS-CBN News that a woman named “Nerizza Miranda” was transferred to the Pasay City Jail Female Dormitory. She was brought to a hospital two days later or on November 29 for “medical evaluation.”
According to the Southern Police District, Branch 111 of the Pasay City Regional Trial Court set bail at P126,000 for the 14 counts. However, no bail was set for her alleged commission of estafa.
The entrepreneur’s husband, Parokya ni Edgar frontman Chito Miranda, defended his wife’s innocence on social media. He said that Neri’s name and image were used to attract investors and that she had no involvement in any fraudulent activities, nor any chance to defend herself.
Former senator Kiko Pangilinan also expressed his support for the actress. Pangilinan insisted that a product endorser should not be held accountable for the illegal actions of a company’s owners or management.
Neri Miranda owns several businesses, such as Neri’s Gourmet Tuyo, some branches of the Italian restaurant Amare La Cucina, and a few rest houses for rent outside Metro Manila. – Rappler.com