Chris Brown skips preliminary investigation for PH concert estafa complaint

MANILA, Philippines – Singer Chris Brown skipped the first preliminary investigation of the estafa complaint filed against him and promoter John Michael Pio Roda by the Maligaya Development Corporation (MDC).

No lawyer represented Brown when the Department of Justice (DOJ) began hearing the estafa complaint. But Roda, with his lawyer Sarah Abraham, attended the proceedings conducted by Assistant State Prosecutor Christine Marie Buencamino on Friday, July 31. 

Roda, a Canadian citizen who was detained by the Bureau of Immigration supposedly for immigration violations, was given 15 days to file his counter-affidavit. 

“We fully intend to address all allegations during the next hearing when we file our counter affidavit,” Abraham told reporters after the hearing.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said the investigation may proceed even if Brown chooses not to participate. 

“Of course the PI will proceed [whether he’s around or not] since there is a complaint. It will have to go through the process,” she said. “Yes, he may ignore the subpoena.”

Since Brown chose to leave the country before the subpoena was issued, De Lima said Brown’s departure is considered a waiver of their right to answer the complaint. She said there are legal measures available in case the prosecutor decides to file the case in court.

Estafa complaint 

The estafa complaint was filed by Glicerio Santos IV, head legal counsel of the Iglesia ni Cristo and chief operating officer of Maligaya Development Corporation (MDC).

MDC is the company that manages the area where the Philippine Arena is located. Brown was supposed to have a concert there on December 31, 2014, but he canceled the show, claiming he lost his passport prior. According to the complaint affidavit, they were paid, but did not perform and failed to return the money. Brown’s visit to the Philippines came at a total cost of about $1 million.

Brown was barred from leaving Manila on July 22, due to a lookout bulletin order from the DOJ as a result of the issue. He left days later, continuing his world tour. – Rappler.com