DOJ probe into Aplasca, 2 others over Senate shooting nears end
MANILA, Philippines—Former Senate Sergeant-at-Arms Mao Ranada Aplasca on Wednesday submitted his counter-affidavit to the direct assault complaint before the Department of Justice (DOJ) in connection with the May 13 incident that led to gunshots being fired in the chamber. DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez confirmed that Aplasca filed his counter-affidavit as one of three respondents in
Places named in this report: Philippines
Exact coordinates
philippines: 12.880, 121.770
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What might happen next? AI-generated
These scenarios are written by an AI language model from the headline and summary above. They are not predictions from the newsroom, and they are not evidence of anything. Every one is given a deadline and checked against later coverage, and the score is published on the ledger — including the ones that miss.
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Awaiting deadline 40% DOJ Issues Formal Indictment
Following the submission of the counter-affidavits, the DOJ reviews the evidence and finds sufficient grounds to proceed against the three named individuals. Formal charges are filed, marking the end of the initial probe phase and initiating legal proceedings.
Watch for: DOJ announces formal filing of criminal charges against Aplasca and the other two respondents. · A specific date is set for the arraignment hearing in the regional trial court.
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Awaiting deadline 30% DOJ Drops Charges Due to Insufficient Evidence
After reviewing the counter-affidavits and testimonial evidence, the DOJ spokesperson announces that the case lacks sufficient prosecutorial strength. The complaint against Aplasca and the other parties is officially dismissed.
Watch for: DOJ spokesperson Polo Martinez announces the dismissal of the direct assault complaint. · A press conference is held confirming the case is 'closed' pending further investigation.
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Awaiting deadline 15% Political Settlement/Mutual Agreement
Pressure mounts from political stakeholders who wish to avoid a prolonged public trial. The involved parties agree to a confidential settlement outside of court, potentially involving a negotiated plea deal.
Watch for: A statement is released by the Senate leadership acknowledging a 'amicable resolution' regarding the incident. · Reports surface of a private, off-the-record meeting between the DOJ and the defense counsel.
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Awaiting deadline 15% DOJ Requests Additional Evidence/Referral Back to Senate Inquiry
Rather than proceeding directly to indictment or dismissal, the DOJ finds the current documentation incomplete. They formally request supplementary evidence, potentially referring the matter back to a Senate oversight committee for further fact-finding.
Watch for: DOJ issues a public directive stating the need for further testimonial or forensic evidence. · A specific committee within the Senate is scheduled to hold a hearing on the matter within the next two weeks.
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on 2026-10-28. Checked against later coverage after 2026-11-07.
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