Police to file criminal charges vs ex-NPA rebels

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna , Philippines   – Police are set to file criminal charges at the Department of Justice today against four ex-communist rebels and five others tagged as the primary suspects in the ambush-slay on June 24 in San Pablo City, of four persons, including provincial board members, and the wounding of two others.

Task Force Ego probers said charges of multiple murder and frustrated murder are readied against Angel Masongsong, owner of the getaway car; Jerry Araneta, owner of the house; Pelagio Masongsong, a lookout; and Andrey Flores.

Also included in the charge sheet are several John Does.

Chief Superintendent Perfecto Palad, Calabarzon police director, declared a “breakthrough” in the investigation into the killing of City Councilor Danny Yang after one of the suspects gave himself up to the authorities.

“The suspect was very cooperative in the investigation and he also confessed his involvement in the crime and identified his cohorts,” Palad told The STAR.               

He said Flores surrendered on July 9 accompanied by a village chieftain. Flores was transferred to police custody.

Palad, however, said the motive and the mastermind behind the killing of Yang, his security aide Brando de los Santos and ex-chairman Manolo Barcenas are not yet established.   – Ed Amoroso