NBI to Issue Subpoenas in Ongoing Investigation

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Melvin Matibag said the agency would issue subpoenas to Batangas 1st District Representative Leandro Leviste and former congressman Jing Paras as part of an ongoing investigation.

Matibag also encouraged both men to appear before the NBI and present their side regarding the allegations being investigated.

According to the NBI chief, the agency intends to hear all parties before reaching any conclusions.

Allegations Under Investigation

The investigation concerns allegations of a honeytrap and sex scandal plot involving Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

Authorities have not publicly announced any findings, and the investigation remains ongoing.

The allegations have not been proven in court, and no determination of criminal liability has been made.

NBI Seeks Explanations From Those Named

Matibag said the subpoenas are intended to give the individuals involved an opportunity to explain their respective positions.

Issuing subpoenas is a standard investigative procedure that allows investigators to gather statements and evaluate available evidence before deciding whether further legal action is warranted.

Investigation Continues

The NBI has not yet released detailed findings regarding the allegations.

Officials said the investigation will continue through the collection of documents, statements, and other relevant evidence before any recommendations are made.

The agency has urged the public to allow the investigative process to proceed.

Why This Story Matters

The case has attracted public attention because it involves high-profile public officials and allegations that could have political and legal implications if substantiated.

At this stage, however, the investigation remains in its fact-finding phase, and all parties retain the opportunity to present their side.

Key Takeaways

• NBI Director Melvin Matibag said subpoenas would be issued to Rep. Leandro Leviste and former congressman Jing Paras.

• The investigation involves allegations of a honeytrap and sex scandal plot against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto.

• The NBI encouraged those named to appear and explain their side.

• The investigation remains ongoing, and no findings of liability have been announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the NBI issuing subpoenas?

According to NBI Director Melvin Matibag, the subpoenas are part of an ongoing investigation and are intended to obtain statements from those named.

Have charges been filed?

At the time of publication, the matter remained under investigation. The issuance of a subpoena does not by itself establish wrongdoing or guilt.

What is being investigated?

The NBI is investigating allegations involving an alleged honeytrap and sex scandal plot against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto. The allegations remain unproven.

Editorial Note

This article reports statements made by NBI Director Melvin Matibag regarding an ongoing investigation. The alleged honeytrap and sex scandal plot remains under investigation, and no court has made findings regarding the allegations. Individuals mentioned are presumed innocent unless and until proven otherwise under applicable law.

Recto Shuts Down Cabinet Revamp Rumors

BBM Watch

January 13, 2026•1 min read

Executive Secretary Ralph Recto has dismissed circulating rumors of an impending Cabinet reshuffle, saying such speculation does not benefit governance or the Filipino people.

In a statement, Recto clarified that there is no ongoing Cabinet revamp and emphasized that government officials should remain focused on their duties rather than engage in rumor-driven narratives. He reiterated that all Cabinet members serve at the pleasure of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., and that performance reviews are a continuing process—not a reaction to online chatter.

The rumors had linked possible changes to several agencies, including the Departments of Health, Education, and Tourism. Palace officials, however, stressed that there has been no directive from the President signaling an overhaul.

Presidential Communications Office spokesperson Claire Castro also addressed the issue in a separate briefing, noting that the administration will not speculate on reshuffles and that any decisions, if ever made, will be based strictly on performance and national interest.

Recto’s remarks underscore a familiar theme in governance: stability matters. While Cabinet positions are always subject to review, leadership continuity—especially amid ongoing programs—remains a priority.

For now, Malacañang’s message is straightforward: work continues, rumors don’t.