04/08/2026
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For Immediate Release
MKT LAW
Office of Atty. Mark Tolentino
Counsel for Congressman and Former Secretary Jacinto βJingβ Paras
Date: August 4, 2026
STATEMENT ON THE NBI INVESTIGATION
As legal counsel for Congressman and Former Secretary Jacinto βJingβ Paras, we confirm that our client has formally appeared through counsel before the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and has fully expressed his willingness to cooperate with every lawful investigation, consistent with his constitutional rights and the fundamental requirements of due process.
Our client has absolutely nothing to hide.
At the same time, cooperation with law enforcement must never be mistaken as a waiver of constitutional rights. The rule of law demands that every investigation be conducted fairly, objectively, and on the basis of competent evidenceβnot on speculation, media narratives, or unverified accusations.
Accordingly, we have formally requested from the NBI copies of the complaint, affidavits, documentary and electronic evidence, investigation orders, and a written clarification of the precise legal capacity in which our client has been summoned. These are not extraordinary requests. They are fundamental components of due process and are indispensable to enable counsel to properly advise the client and to allow an informed and meaningful response to the allegations.
It bears emphasizing that allegations, regardless of how widely circulated, are not evidence. Neither interviews nor public accusations constitute proof of criminal liability. Under our Constitution, every person enjoys the presumption of innocence until guilt is established by competent evidence in the proper judicial forum.
Congressman Paras categorically denies participating in any unlawful conspiracy or any alleged scheme to frame any public official. Any assertion to the contrary remains an untested allegation that must withstand legal scrutiny through proper investigation and due process.
We respectfully urge the public and the media to refrain from rendering premature judgment. Criminal investigations are not determined by headlines, viral posts, or public speculation, but by evidence that satisfies the standards required by law.
Our client likewise reserves all rights available under the Constitution and existing laws, including the right to pursue all appropriate legal remedies against any person who knowingly fabricates evidence, deliberately makes false accusations, or maliciously disseminates defamatory statements intended to destroy his reputation.
Congressman Paras has served the public for many years. He remains confident that a fair, impartial, and objective investigation will ultimately establish the truth and completely vindicate his name.
We trust that the NBI will conduct its investigation in accordance with the Constitution, the law, and the highest standards of fairness expected of our justice system.
For further inquiries, kindly coordinate with the Office of the Undersigned Counsel.
MKT LAW
Office of Atty. Mark Tolentino
Counsel for Congressman and Former Secretary Jacinto βJingβ Paras
09688811912
