Mystery surrounds the death of a military lawyer who was found dead at the headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.
The remains of Colonel Rolando Escalona Jr., assigned to the Judge Advocate General’s Service (JAGS), were found inside his quarters “in the early hours” of Nov. 22, according to AFP spokesperson Col. Francel Margareth Padilla.
“The AFP, in coordination with the Philippine National Police and Scene of the Crime Operatives, is currently conducting a thorough investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Padilla said on Sunday night, Nov. 24.
The military did not reveal other details about the incident.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that Escalona sustained a gunshot wound and a firearm was recovered in his quarters.
The AFP mourned the passing of Escalona and extended condolences to his bereaved family.
“The AFP is committed to ensuring a complete and impartial investigation to shed light on this matter,” Padilla said.
In 2021, Escalona was among those promoted by the AFP where he earned the rank colonel for his work on rendering legal assistance as required by the AFP through the JAGS, ensuring the legitimacy of every military action, and supervising the efficient administration of the Military Justice System.