PNP ready to face House if inquiry on use of bounty for killers of partylist solon is held

October 2, 2019

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said they are prepared to face possible House inquiry on the reward money against those who killed Ako Bicol Representative Rodel Batocabe and his bodyguard.

"The PNP is prepared to face any hearing that the Congress will create in regards with the reward money on the Batocabe case," said Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac, the PNP spokesperson, in a press briefing.

He said PNP is ready to give all details and documents.

However, Banac said he cannot disclose how the money was used.

"We cannot give the details for security reasons but the PNP is prepare to explain and give details regarding the reward money," Banac said.

House Minority Leader Bienvenido Abante Jr. who filed House Resolution No. 384 calling for an inquiry on the disbursement of reward money raised by the House, the Office of the President and the Albay provincial government.

Lawmakers hoped the bounty was not used in wrongdoings.

Of the P35 million bounty, P20 million came from the Office of the President, P13 million from the House, and another P2 million was through the Albay provincial government. 

Batocabe and his bodyguard were shot dead after a gift-giving event in Daraga, Albay last December 2018. Ella Dionisio/DMS