11 Degamo suspects want charges quashed

MANILA, Philippines — The 11 men accused of murdering Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo have renewed their appeals to have their case dismissed before their arraignment in September.

The legal team of the 11 suspects filed motions to quash and suppress evidence before the Manila Regional Trial Court Branches 51 and 40, respectively.

The suspects are facing charges of murder, frustrated murder and attempted murder. They are Winrich Isturis, Joric Labrador, Benjie Rodriguez, Eulogio and John Louie Gonyong, Joven Javier, Dahniel Lora, Romel Pattaguan, Jhudiel Rivero, Rogelio Antipolo Jr. and their alleged leader Marvin Miranda.

Labrador, Javier and Rodriguez are also charged with illegal possession of firearms.

The suspects, in a motion obtained by The STAR on July 19, claimed that their arrests were “illegal” and their withdrawn confessions were made under duress.

They are being held at the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology facility in Taguig City.

Danny Villanueva, lawyer for the suspects, said he hoped the charges filed against his clients would be dismissed before their scheduled arraignment.