“Cult leader” accomplice pleads not guilty

CEBU, Philippines - One of the alleged suspects in the killing of a 16-year-old boy inside the mansion of “cult leader” Casiano “Tatay Loloy” Apduhan pleaded not guilty during an arraignment yesterday.

Zacarias Barquio pleaded not guilty before Branch 29 of the Regional Trial Court in Toledo City.

Barquio was tagged as one of those who allegedly killed Angelo Repuela inside the villa of Apduhan in 2012 while another suspect, a certain Victor Fajardo, remains at large.

Cebu Vice Governor Agnes Magpale and the victim’s mother, Remegia Repuela, appeared in court to testify.

On the other hand, lawyer Paulino Labrado, counsel of the defense, filed a petition for bail on the murder case against Apduhan.

The prosecution will also be presenting another witness to testify on the murder case against him this coming March 19.

As for the illegal detention case against the alleged cult leader, Apduhan’s counsel also filed a petition to post bail.  Apduhan allegedly detained Emma Nepomuceno inside his residence in Laray 3, Barangay Buanoy, Balamban town.

Aside from murder and illegal detention, Apduhan is also facing charges of Expanded Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2012 and illegal possession of firearms.  — (FREEMAN)