Filmmaker and Companions Released After Month-Long Detention in Quezon
A filmmaker named Jade Castro, along with three companions, were finally released after being detained for over a month on suspected arson charges. Civil engineers Noel Mariano and Dominic Ramos, as well as sales manager Ernesto Orcine, regained their freedom on Monday, March 11, after the court granted their motion to dismiss the charges.
Chel Diokno, a human rights lawyer representing Castro, expressed relief at the court’s decision, calling it an “answered prayer.” The filmmaker and his associates were arrested without a warrant on February 1, following accusations of setting fire to a modern passenger vehicle in Catanauan. Witnesses claimed the suspects wore bonnets during the incident.
Despite the allegations, Castro maintained their innocence and stated that they were vacationing in Mulanay town, approximately 40 minutes away from Catanauan at the time of the incident. The group’s release marks the end of a challenging period for them, bringing relief to their loved ones and supporters.
