Guard gets life for slay of architect 3 years ago

A security guard has been sentenced to reclusion perpetua by a Manila regional trial court for the killing of an architect three years ago at the height of an argument inside the compound of a company they both worked for.

Willie Almedilla was sentenced to virtual life imprisonment by Manila Judge Teresa Soriaso for the "treacherous" slaying of Ruel Borela, then the manager of OIC Construction in Quiapo, Manila, on July 3, 1997.

Borela was shot by Almedilla in the left side of his body below his armpit, hitting his heart and lungs. Borela did not make it alive to the hospital.

For his part, Almedilla testified in court and claimed that he grappled with the victim for possession of the gun. He said Borela tried to grab his gun after throwing a chair at him.

The cause of the argument was reportedly Almedilla’s failure to close the gate of the compound at about 7 p.m. for which he was berated by Borela. The accused reportedly answered back until a heated discussion erupted between the two.

Soriaso, however, ruled "the court finds it hard to believe the scenario presented by the defense. It is wanting in details" including the explanation as to how Borela ended up getting shot from behind.

In convicting Almedilla, the judge gave weight to the testimony of witness Ruben Mesa, 31, also an employee of the construction firm, who reported seeing the incident. Ruben said he saw the architect confront the accused after hearing the crash of a chair thrown outside his office.

Mesa said Borela was about to go back to his office following the argument, when he saw the accused leave and return with a gun and shoot the victim. The suspect fled but was later arrested by police.

In sentencing the accused to reclusion perpetua, the court considered treachery as the aggravating circumstance.

Almedilla was also ordered to indemnify the family of Borela with some P322,000 in damages. – Jose Aravilla