The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) says Batangas Rep. Leandro Leviste is not yet considered a “fugitive from justice,” even though a Makati court has issued an arrest warrant. The DOJ clarifies this point after statements suggesting he had already been classified as a fugitive.
The Inquirer and GMA report that DOJ Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Herbert Abugan explains that labeling someone a fugitive requires a specific process. Until the court case proceeds—starting with the scheduled arraignment—authorities are expected to follow the next steps in the matter. Inquirer notes the Makati Regional Trial Court has set Leviste’s arraignment for Oct. 26.
Overall, the different outlets center on the DOJ’s clarification of procedure and timing: the warrant exists, but the legal designation of “fugitive” is not yet applied.
