CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – A suspect in the murder of beauty queen Catherine Camilon surrendered on Tuesday morning, January 9, to the police in Balayan, Batangas.
The suspect, Jeffrey Ariola Magpantay, 33, of Barangay San Roque, Rosario, Batangas, accompanied by his live-in partner, submitted himself for preventive custody at 11:59 a.m.
His surrender comes in the wake of kidnapping and serious illegal detention charges filed against him in connection with the disappearance of Camilon last year.
Police said the suspect is determined to cooperate with the legal process by submitting a waiver of detention signed by his legal counsel.
PRO 4-A Director Police Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas acknowledged the surrender of Magpantay and affirmed their commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial investigation on the case.
“We appreciate the cooperation of all individuals involved in the legal proceedings. This act of Magpantay signals his commitment to face the charges levied against him in a lawful and transparent manner,” Lucas said
Magpantay is believed to be the driver of the prime suspect, Police Major Allan de Castro, who is facing both administrative and criminal charges over the case.
PRO 4-A assured the public that they will continue to provide updates to the media and the public to maintain a balance between transparency and the need to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.