On All Soul’s day: Ellah Joy’s family still prays for justice

CEBU, Philippines - The observance of All Saint’s and All Soul’s Day means remembering departed loved ones and offering prayers for their souls.

 But for Renante Pique, father of kidnap-slay victim, Ellah Joy, these days mean more to them as it reminds them that justice has not been served yet for their daughter.

Ellah Joy, then six-years old was kidnapped and murdered last February 8, 2011 while on her way home from Calajo-an Elementary School. Her body was found the following day dumped at a ravine in Sayaw Beach, Barili, Cebu.

In an interview with The FREEMAN, Renante shared that though it’s almost three years since his daughter died, the memory is still fresh and still hurts them deeply.

Renante, together with his family and relatives, will be visiting the tomb of his daughter today at the Pardo Public Cemetery to light candles and offer prayers. Renante added that they will also be offering a mass for his daughter.

More importantly, Renante said they are not giving up on seeking justice for Ellah Joy.

“We want justice, we pray for justice because there is still pain in our hearts,” he added.

Last May, Bella Ruby Santos, the accused in the kidnap-slay of Ellah Joy, posted bail of P500,000 upon the approval of the court.

But the prosecution assured that they will pursue the case against Santos and her British partner, Ian Griffiths, who remains at large.

In fact, a hearing was set for November 11 for the prosecution to present another witness.

However, due to the recent 7.2 magnitude earthquake that left the Marcelo Fernan Hall of Justice damaged and condemned for use, the hearing may be moved to another schedule.

Executive judge Soliver Peras announced that there will be no hearings until further notice while personnel of the Regional Trial Courts and Municipal Trial Courts in Cities have been working outside the building to accommodate inquiries on cases and filing of pleadings.

Judge Mienrado Paredes of  Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 13 earlier said that it is difficult to hold court hearings in open space.

The court is eyeing the Cebu Eastern College (CEC) building in Jakosalem Street as their temporary office but is still subject for approval from the Supreme Court.

The said case is still pending before the sala of Judge Ester Veloso of RTC Branch 6.  — (FREEMAN)