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Manila Bulletin

Philippines

SPD: Percy Lapid murder solved

Philippines

SPD: Percy Lapid murder solved

By Jean Fernando

The Southern Police District (SPD) considers the murder of hard-hitting broadcast journalist Percival “Percy Lapid” Mabasa “solved” as the suspects have been identified and one of them apprehended.

SPD Director Brig. Gen. Kirby John Brion Kraft said yesterday that they are reviewing Lapid’s radio program from 2021 to 2022.

Kraft also said that despite this development, the murder investigation and the hunt for three other suspects, brothers Edmon and Israel Dimaculangan, and a certain “Orly” or “Orlando,” continue.

The gunman, Joel Ecorial, had surrendered on Oct. 18.

Kraft said the Dimaculangans were lookouts while Orly drove the getaway vehicle after completing the hit.

The SPD chief said a murder case has been filed against Escorial.

Kraft added that they have coordinated with the father of the alleged first middleman who died inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP), Crisanto Villamor, named by Escorial as the person who contacted him to kill Lapid.

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) has secured the second middleman, Christopher Bacoto.

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