Reward for Cardeno arrest urged

The family and supporters of slain self-proclaimed Young Officers Union spokesperson Baron Cervantes are asking the government to put a price on the head of police Superintendent Rafael Cardeno, the alleged mastermind of the crime.

In a press conference held in Makati City Friday, the family of Cervantes together with Equal Justice for All Movement Chairman Leonard de Vera and Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption Chairman Dante Jimenez made the appeal in light of the possibility that Cardeno may have already left the country.

De Vera raised doubts that Cardeno will surrender if and when he is charged with the murder of Cervantes.

He pointed out that Cardeno has already indicated that he will not surrender based on his failure to surface in spite of an outstanding warrant of arrest issued by the Quezon City Regional Trial Court.

The warrant was issued in relation to a malversation of public property case filed against Cardeno for his failure to return an Armalite rifle issued to him.

"In spite of the outstanding warrant for his arrest is a bailable crime, Col. Cardeno still refuses to surrender to the authorities. Will he surrender if and when he is charged with the murder of Baron Cervantes which is non-bailable?" De Vera said.

De Vera also expressed belief that Cardeno has already left the country because of his extensive connections and influence.

In response, the E-Just called on the Philippine National Police to intensify its search and arrest Cardeno who is now considered a fugitive.

The Bureau of Immigration was also asked to issue a Hold Departure Order on Cardeno just in case that he is still in the country.

Jimenez said that a reward system similar to what the United States government initiated for the capture of the Abu Sayyaf leaders should be offered by the national government for the arrest of Cardeno. – Marvin Sy