Odicta couple’s kin won’t file raps

ILOILO CITY, Philippines — Saying they wanted to live in peace, the family of slain businessman Melvin Odicta and his wife Meriam has decided not to file charges against the perpetrators of the killings.

The killers are unknown.

“What’s important... is the future and security of their children and their other relatives,” a statement released by the family’s lawyer, Gualberto Cataluña, stated.

However, the family asked President Duterte to ensure the security and safety of the couple’s children.

They also appealed for privacy as they mourn the death of their relatives.

The family maintained that Odicta and his wife were not involved in illegal drugs.

The couple were killed three days after Melvin turned himself in to authorities.

Meanwhile, Superintendent Gilbert Gorero, Western Visayas police spokesman, asked the Odicta family to convert their press statement into a sworn affidavit.

“The Malay police needs their testimony with regard to the ongoing investigation,” Gorero said.

He said they would continue with their probe despite the family’s statement.

”If evidence warants, we would file a case against the perperators. Unless the next of kin would sign an affidavit of non-interest,” Gorero said.