MANILA — Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil has mandated the immediate reinvestigation into the 2020 murder of retired police general and former Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) board secretary Wesley Barayuga. This decision follows new testimony unveiled during a recent House of Representatives inquiry, which implicated significant figures and demanded a thorough reassessment of the case.
According to Philippines News Agency, Gen. Marbil underscored the necessity of a comprehensive reinvestigation in light of revelations made by a key witness in the House’s probe. “This revelation demands a thorough reinvestigation of the murder. No one is above the law, and we will seek justice for retired general Wesley Barayuga and his family with the full resources of the PNP,” Marbil stated. The PNP Chief’s directive was catalyzed by statements made during the seventh hearing of the House quad committee last Friday.
During the hearing, Lt. Col. Santie Mendoza of the Police Drug Enforcement Group testified that former PCSO general manager Royina Garma was allegedly involved in orchestrating Barayuga’s assassination. Mendoza disclosed that he had been contacted by National Police Commission Commissioner Edilberto Leonardo in October 2019, who informed him that Barayuga was considered a high-value target due to suspected links to illegal drugs. Mendoza alleged that the directive to eliminate Barayuga originated from Garma while he was assigned to the PNP deputy chief for administration.
In response to these serious allegations, Marbil has instructed the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group to spearhead the reinvestigation. The reevaluation will involve a thorough examination of all existing evidence and collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure the integrity and transparency of the process. “We are committed to uncovering the truth, regardless of the position or power of those involved. The public can rest assured that we will hold those responsible accountable,” Marbil added, reaffirming the PNP’s dedication to upholding the law and the ethical standards of the police force.
The assassination of Barayuga occurred in July 2020, when a motorcycle-riding gunman fatally shot him while he was in his car along Calbayog St. in Barangay Highway Hills, Mandaluyong City. The case has since garnered significant attention, leading to ongoing calls for justice and accountability.
Additionally, the Philippine Military Academy ‘Matikas’ Class of 1983, to which Barayuga belonged, commended the House quad committee for its role in advancing the investigation. Retired Air Force colonel Enrique Dela Cruz, president of the Class of 1983, expressed gratitude for the committee’s diligent efforts, which have instilled hope for a resolution to the case. “Such service and commitment to deliver justice and righteous acts as you do today give us confidence that our nation is indeed represented by wise, courageous and honorable men,” Dela Cruz remarked.
The reinvigorated investigation aims to ensure that all parties involved in the conspiracy are appropriately identified and prosecuted, with the overarching goal of delivering justice for Barayuga and his family.