MANILA -- Raymart Santiago and Claudine Barretto met for the first time in court on Wednesday in relation to a protection order filed by the actress against her husband in late July.
Both camps met at the Marikina Regional Trial Court, where Barretto is now seeking to make permanent the temporary protection (TPO) order she had sought against Santiago on behalf of her and their two children.
The TPO, which was granted early this week, restricts Santiago "from inflicting physical, psychological and mental abuse to Claudine and the kids."
Under the order, the actor is also prohibited from being within 300 meters of Barretto, their children, their residence, and the children's schools. Santiago is also restricted from communicating with his wife, both their kids, and their household help.
The same order likewise prohibits Santiago "or anyone under his direction" from speaking about Barretto or the case to the media.
The TPO stems from Santiago's alleged "physical, verbal, psychological, and even economical" abuse towards Barretto, which the actor denied.
The couple was married in March 2006. They have two children -- an adopted daughter, Sabina, 9; and a biological son, Santino, 6.
According to Santiago's legal counsel, Atty. Peter Sanchez, the actor has already filed a petition for a writ of habeas corpus to see his children. The case was raffled off Wednesday morning to Branch 168 of the Marikina RTC.
After Wednesday's hearing, Santiago expressed confidence that "the truth will eventually come out."
"Lalabas naman lahat 'yan sa korte," Santiago, who was escorted by security personnel, told reporters as he exited the Marikina RTC.
He also thanked those who support him despite Barretto's allegations. "Gusto ko magpasalamat sa lahat ng mga sumusuporta sa akin, at mga taong naniniwala sa akin. Naniniwala ako na lalabas din ang totoo dito," he said.
Barretto, who was present in the closed-door hearing on Wednesday, was seen hastily leaving the court. She opted not to grant any interviews. -- Report from Ginger Conejero, ABS-CBN News
