In connection with the murders of broadcaster Percival Mabasa, also known as Percy Lapid, and Bilibid convict Jun Villamor, the Department of Justice (DOJ) accused many individuals, including suspended Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) Director Gerald Bantag.
The DOJ panel, which is also known as Sr. Alvin Labra, Aldrin Galicia, and Supt. Ricardo Zulueta are defendants with Bantag on two charges of murder.
Joel Escorial, a certain Edmon Dimaculangan, a certain alias Orlando, prisoners Denver Mayores and Alfie Peaedonda, as well as Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) detainee Christopher Bacoto, are also cited as respondents for the murder of Lapid. In the case of the renowned broadcaster’s ambush slaying, Escorial has admitted to being a hitman.
Others designated as respondents by the panel in connection with Villamor’s murder are Mario Alvarez, Joseph Georfo, Christian Ramac, Ricky Salgado, Ronnie dela Cruz, and Joel Reyes.
“The preliminary investigation showed that the conspiracies between and among the corresponding respondents were involved in the murders of Mabasa and Villamor. The DOJ briefer stated that the complainants’ evidence “showed the respondents’ intention to kill them both, including its execution.
The briefer noted, “The prosecution emphasizes that the deaths of Villamor and Percival were connected, and that the former’s death was utilized to conceal the latter’s death.
On October 3, 2022, Lapid was assassinated in Las Piñas City close to the entrance of the community where he resided.
Escorial later came to light and said that he, Dimaculangan, and someone named Orlando were all hired to assassinate Lapid. Villamor, the intermediary who hired him to kill the journalist, was also named by him.
Nevertheless, Villamor was declared dead on October 18, 2022, only hours after Escorial went on display to admit to his part in the assassination plan against Lapid.