Argao mayor offers 50k reward

CEBU, Philippines - Argao Mayor Edsel Galeos yesterday offered P50,000 cash reward for those who can help in the resolution of the murder of outgoing Argao Councilor Joaquin Banosong in Barangay Lamacan last Monday.

Galleos announced over radio dyLA that he, some friends of the slain councilor and other sectors raised the cash reward hoping to encourage witnesses to cooperate in the investigation. 

The police are looking into business and personal grudge as the two possible motives behind Banosong’s killing.

Cebu Provincial Police Office Director Senior Supt. Patrocinio Comendador said Banosong owned a meat store at the public market where he was shot.

His wife, Cesaria, also revealed earlier that Banosong was engaged in lending business.

Comendador said they are checking a list of those who owe the councilor money in relation to his business.

 â€œNaa gyud ni nahitabo o problema somewhere along the way which led to his death,” Comendador said.

Comendador admitted they already have a lead but he refused to disclose further details so as not to jeopardize their investigation.

“We are confident to identify the gunman and file case against him and we don’t want the gunman to telegraph our moves, basin ma-compromise ang detalye sa investigation,” Comendador said.

The police already discounted politics as motive because Argao was not a politically contested town and Banosong, 64, did not have enemies during his three terms as town councilor.

CPPO has created a special investigation task group to expedite the resolution of the case.

The task group is composed of personnel from the Provincial Investigation and Detective Management Branch, Provincial Intelligence Branch, Crime Scene Investigation Unit, and the Argao police.

Comendador has also directed the neighboring police stations to assist in the investigation.

He added that facial composite of the gunman will be made anytime today.

Banosong was about to board his silver Hyundai Starex van carrying food for dinner when he was fatally shot by the gunman.

 He was declared dead on arrival at the hospital while the attacker fled on a motorcycle.

Banosong’s van bore two bullet holes. Found in the scene were three empty shells, three slugs and a holster. – (FREEMAN)