MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) are set to reopen the investigation on the killing of retired police general and Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga.
According to PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, there is a need for another full investigation following the testimony of a key witness during a House of Representatives probe last week.
“This revelation demands a thorough reinvestigation of the murder. No one is above the law, and we will seek justice for retired general Wesley Barayuga and his family with the full resources of the PNP,” Marbil said.
Marbil tasked the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to lead the reinvestigation, reevaluate all evidence and work closely with other relevant agencies to ensure the process is thorough, impartial, and transparent.
“We are committed to uncovering the truth, regardless of the position or power of those involved. The public can rest assured that we will hold those responsible accountable,” Marbil said.
Marbil also said the PNP’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining the integrity of the police force, assuring that investigations will be pursued without fear or favor.
During the House quad committee (quadcom) hearing on Friday, Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza of the Police Drug Enforcement Group implicated former PCSO general manager Royina Garma in the 2020 assassination of Barayuga.
Mendoza stated that he was contacted by National Police Commission Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in October 2019 and said Barayuga was a high-value target due to his alleged links with illegal drugs.
Mendoza revealed to the congressmen that the instruction to kill Barayuga allegedly came from Garma, who was assigned to the PNP deputy chief for administration at the time.
A motorcycle-riding gunman opened fire on the car of Barayuga along Calbayog St. in Barangay Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City in July 2020./PN
