12/09/2024
ORTEGA FAMILY STATEMENT ON THE ARREST OF FUGITIVE JOEL REYES
We welcome the NBI’s arrest of Palawan ex-Governor Joel Reyes, an important step in the long-overdue pursuit of justice for our beloved Doc Gerry Ortega. We also extend our gratitude to Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla for his renewed commitment in pursuing the murder case.
However, our optimism remains cautious. More than 13 years have passed, and we have yet to see the swift and fair trial that the overwhelming evidence against the former governor demands. We remember that Reyes evaded justice for over a year after the warrant was reissued—resurfacing only when it suited him. This is part of his fugitive pattern: he previously fled to Thailand and hid there for years using a fake passport.
Additionally, his candidacy for governor in the 2022 elections added further insult to injury, since he was convicted by the Ombudsman for graft and corruption and should have been automatically disqualified. This is a man who wields power to his advantage, yet plays the victim when the wheels of justice turn against him.
Despite these challenges, our family remains resolute in our belief that the truth must prevail. We continue to honor Doc Gerry’s legacy of standing with integrity, defending the defenseless, speaking truth to power, and fighting courageously for what is right.
We urge our government to uphold fairness and accountability, as the failure to do so would only embolden those in power to silence voices like Doc Gerry’s. He was not only a beloved father and husband but also a fearless radio broadcaster, environmentalist, and anti-corruption advocate—embodying the values we Filipinos aspire to live by.
If justice eludes this case, we fear the consequences for those who continue to speak out against corruption and impunity.
