Six undergo paraffin test over friend's shooting

CEBU, Philippines - Six men were subjected to paraffin test yesterday following the shooting of Mariano Diola Jr. in Barangay Mabolo last Saturday while at a friend’s birthday.

The paraffin test was conducted upon the request of Diola’s father to clear doubts that one of his son’s drinking buddies might have been responsible of the shooting.

Subjected to paraffin test were Kevin Campilan, Allain Ortiz, Noel Barro, Junlen Hilaria, Dexter Opolintisima, Ariel Aranas and Enrico Florita, all close friends of the victim.

Ortiz told The FREEMAN they voluntarily underwent the test to clear doubts as regards their purported participation.

Mariano Sr. himself said he knows all six men because they grew up together with his son.

“Mga kababata gyud na sila, mao nga kaila ko nila. Apan aron ma-klaro ang akong pagduda, ako silang gi-hangyo nga mag-paraffin test,” he said. 

Diola is currently confined at the Chong Hua Hospital, as the bullet that entered his forehead remains lodged at the back of his head. 

“Naa gihapon ang bala sa luyo sa iyang ulo, kay di man pud makuha sa doctor kay mag-bleeding ang ugat,” 

Homicide investigator SPO4 Alex Dacua said everyone in Diola’s group was considered a suspect at first, but all of them were lifted from the list after giving their statements. All six also cooperated when Mariano Sr. requested for the paraffin test. Test results will be available after a month. 

“Mi-cooperate gyud sila kay amigo man gyud nila ang biktima. Apan kun naay ma-positive, diha nato hibaw-an kun kinsa gyud ang nagpusil,” he said.

Diola was at Ortiz’ birthday last Saturday when a gunshot rang from a distance. The victim, who was sitting on a chair, suddenly fell to the ground with blood oozing from his head. He was immediately rushed to the hospital. (FREEMAN)