Businessman Francis Cabuga, the estranged husband of Metro Inn owner Catherine Brios, insisted his actions in taking over the lodging establishment earlier this week was legal.

In a radio interview, Cabuga said an audit of the establishment was needed and that the takeover was “legal,” pointing out, he is the hotel’s largest shareholder.

He also denied allegations of a hostage situation, noting, his group had informed the Bacolod City Police Officer prior to the incident.

Cabuga also offered a public apology to the other businesses and residents living near 6th-Lacson Street, which was affected by the standoff.

Earlier, Brios and her legal adviser, Atty. Joemax Ortiz, unveiled plans to file charges against Cabuga after his attempted takeover.

Aside from Cabuga, Brios also plans to file charges against Cabuga’s lawyer, Atty. Erfe del Castillo, after she allegedly “shooed away” their daughter, who wanted to speak with her father.

The planned charges against del Castillo also includes a possible disbarment case./DGB, WDJ