Case vs Cua dismissed

By Jason B. Neola

VIRAC, Catanduanes --- The Municipal Trial Court (MTC) of Virac has dismissed Criminal Case No. 7174 against former Catanduanes governor Joseph “Boboy” Cua.

The case stemmed from allegations of violations of the National Building Code of the Philippines under Presidential Decree No. 1096.

In his official statement following the dismissal, Cua said he was pleased with the court’s decision and maintained that he had faced the allegations from the beginning.

Cua recalled that when the warrant of arrest was initially issued, he voluntarily submitted himself to authorities to demonstrate his respect for the legal process. He said the complaint had originated years earlier, but he chose to face the case and maintained his trust in due process.

With the dismissal of the case, Cua said his trust in the judicial process had been affirmed.

He said the court found that his constitutional right to the speedy disposition of cases had been violated because of delays in the proceedings.

Cua said the ruling affirmed his position that the case should be resolved through the proper legal process rather than through what he described as “trial by public opinion.”

Cua also raised concerns over what he described as the circulation on social media of his unblurred mugshot and an investigation report, which he said involved a possible breach of his data privacy.

He said he and his legal counsel would continue to pursue appropriate legal steps concerning the matter.

The former governor thanked those who had continued to support him and his family during the proceedings, saying their prayers, messages of concern and support had given them strength.

With the case dismissed, Cua said he intends to focus on living a private life while continuing to help the community in whatever capacity remains possible for him as a private citizen.

He also called on Catandunganons to be discerning about information being circulated on social media and urged that issues be addressed through proper legal processes.

Cua urged his fellow Catandunganons to work together for the betterment of the province.

He ended his statement with a call for peace, saying he hopes for a more peaceful Catanduanes and urging people to “spread love, not hate; spread peace, not toxicity.”