Degamo probe in Senate to aid case, says Bato

By Macon Ramos-Araneta

SEN. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa on Sunday said the Senate probe of the murder of Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo will complement the efforts of the Department of Justice, which is deep in its criminal prosecution of the suspects so far.

Dela Rosa said the Senate investigation, in aid of legislation, on the Degamo case will commence on April 17 (Monday). He is confident that additional evidence to be unearthed in the Senate inquiry will help the DOJ in the process.

However, the chairperson of the Senate public and illegal drugscommittee said they will focus more on policy issues that may be fixed through legislation.

He said Negros Oriental Rep. Arnulfo Teves, implicated as the "brains" in the broad daylight killing of Degamo in front of his own house,will be invited to the hearing, whether physical or virtual.

The congressman has opted to remain abroad, citing threats to his life if he goes back to the Philippines.

Dela Rosa said his committee will also invite former Negros Oriental Gov. Henry Teves, and the arrested suspects once clearance from courts are obtained from the police, DOJ, Department of Interior and Local Government, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.