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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Arrested suspects in Gov Degamo killing charged; manhunt on vs other gunmen

Arrested suspects in Gov Degamo killing charged; manhunt on vs other gunmen

Published Mar 6, 2023 07:09 pm

Police have filed criminal charges against four people who were arrested in connection with the March 4 assassination of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo that also led to the death of eight people and the wounding of at least 16 others in Pamplona town.

In a press briefing on Monday, March 6, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin “Benhur” Abalos Jr. said those charged were Joven Aber, 42; Benjie Rodriguez, 45 and Joric Labrador, 50.

Governor Roel Degamo (Provincial Government of Negros Oriental/ Facebook)

Police Col. Redrico Maranan, chief information officer of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said another case was filed against the fourth suspects currently under custody of the local police. 

Abalos noted that the suspects were arrested by the composite police and military teams on March 4, in Barangay Cansumalig, Bayawan City, Negros Occidental a few hours after the incident.

The joint police and military forces also seized high-caliber firearms and ammunition that were supposedly used by the suspects in the ambush.

Abalos assured that the intense manhunt for the other suspects will be a prime priority, stressing the importance of arresting the mastermind in Degamo’s slaying.

DOJ Undersecretary Nicholas Felix L. Ty assured the public and the families of the victims of justice.

As of Monday, March 6, the DOJ has taken cognizance of two cases involving the incident

The first was filed before the Office of the City Prosecutor of Bayawan and involves violation of RA 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and Presidential Decree No. 1866 as amended by Republic Act 9516 for illegal possession of firearms and explosives

This case has resulted in the filing of information against three of the respondents who were apprehended on March 4.

For the death and injuries that took place in Pamplona town, inquest proceeding is pending before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor of Negros Oriental

In line with out efforts to prevent further injustice to the innocent victims and their families and for the protection of the witnesses in the case, the DOJ noted that they have already been referred to the Witness Protection Program

“Moreover, we are working closely with the PNP and the DILG for the transfer of the respondents who are currently detained to the NCR for protective custody,’’ the DOJ continued.

Due to the on-going investigation, Abalos said no further details can be given but assured that all angles to the motive of the killing are being considered and investigated.

The DILG chief called on the other suspects to surrender since cash rewards were already placed on their heads.

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