March 20, 2023

A suspect believed to have critical information and is one of the main players in the murder of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo has surrendered to the Armed Forces of the Philippines and is set to be turned over to the National Bureau of Investigation.

In a press conference of Task Force Degamo, Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos said that the suspect strengthens the testimonies of other witnesses who earlier surrendered.

“We were told that the suspect has vital and critical information that we hope will pave way for the resolution of this case the soonest possible time,” Abalos said.

According to Department of Justice Secretary Boying Remulla, the information given by the suspect will have to be validated to make sure that everything in the investigation is reliable.

“He knows other people involved and the information he told us corroborated with the statements given by others who were earlier arrested,” Remulla said.

Further, Abalos said that the DILG is willing to extend assistance and protection to the victims’ families and will evaluate thoroughly should they need security.

The Interior Secretary also said that they are listing down the areas where there are private armed groups in anticipation of the barangay elections scheduled to be held on October 30.

Abalos likewise assured that the whole of government is steadfast and assured that justice will be served for Degamo and the families of other victims.

Present during the presscon are the representatives of the member agencies comprising the Task Force Degamo: PNP, AFP, DOJ, DILG, DND, NICA, and NBI. The task force is chaired by Abalos.

He reiterated his call for the others involved in the crime to surrender.

“The mastermind seems to have no conscience. Fear for your lives, baka kayo pa ang ipapatay nito,” Abalos appealed.

At least 30 complaints have been filed in relation to the Degamo murder which happened in his residential compound on March 4. Among the respondents were four who were earlier arrested and 12 John Does.

Of the complaints, nine were for murder, 15 for frustrated murder, 3 for attempted murder, and 3 for violation of the laws on illegal possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

Original Article at: https://dilg.gov.ph/news/Direct-Participant-in-Degamo-Slay-Surrenders/NC-2023-1038