Claudine’s jailed former PA bailed out by Gretchen

MANILA, Philippines – Actress Claudine Barretto’s former personal assistant, who was jailed in May 2013 for alleged theft, was released on March 17, reported Pep.ph.

After 10 months behind bars, 20-year-old Dessa Patilan was released from the Makati City Jail after bail worth P60,000 was reportedly paid by Claudine’s sister actress Gretchen Barretto.

Upon her release, Patilan was accompanied by her lawyers Alma Mallonga and Noel Lazaro, who took on her case pro bono after Gretchen brought the case to Mallonga’s attention.

When asked by the press whether Patilan harbors ill feelings toward Claudine, the 20-year-old answered, “Dati po meron, pero ngayon wala na.” (In the past, yes, but now, not anymore.)

Speaking to the press, Mallonga clarified that the bail was not given, but borrowed. Patilan will eventually return the money to Gretchen, said Mallonga.

“So long as Dessa faces the judges, dumating siya at haharap sa kaso. Parang pampahiram lang siya, pampatulong sa kanya. Walang ibinibigay sa kanya na pera kundi pahiram lamang.” (So long as Dessa faces the judges and the case. It’s money lent to help her. No money was given to her, it was only borrowed.)

Swapping theft complaints

On May 10, 2013, the actress accused then 19-year-old Dessa Patilan of stealing a watch, jewelry, and other belongings amounting to P8.5 million.

According to Pep.ph, the missing items, including a P1.5 miliion Rolex watch, were found in Patilan’s possession.

In September 2013, Patilan also filed a theft case against Claudine for allegedly stealing P13,500 worth of cash and belongings.

The theft allegedly happened on the same night Claudine called on authorities in search of millions worth of belongings allegedly stolen by Patilan.

According to a previous report by Pep.ph, Claudine allegedly took P10,700 from Patilan’s wallet, as well as an electronic tablet and her cellphone’s sim card while her belongings were being searched by Claudine and police.
Patilan asked for over P100,000 as compensation for moral damages and exemplary damages.

Actress Claudine Barretto is also facing a legal battle against ex-spouse Raymart Santiago, whom she accused of domestic abuse. In January of this year, Claudine and her mother Inday Barretto have revealed plans of pressing charges against Gretchen, in connection to a longstanding rift in the family. – Rappler.com