Matobato posts bail in frustrated murder case

MANILA, Philippines — Confessed hitman Edgar Matobato on Thursday posted bail for another frustrated murder case.

Matobato reportedly surrendered at Manila City Hall to answer an arrest warrant issued against him by a Davao del Sur court. He was however brought to the Manila Police District headquarters.

According to lawyer Jude Sabio, Matobato has already posted bail of P200,000 at the Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 24. However, he is still undergoing the booking procedure at the MPD while waiting for his release order.

Matobato had his mugshot taken and had a medical checkup.

A regional trial court in Digos, Davao del Sur had ordered Matobato and co-accused lawyer Norberto Sinsona arrested for frustrated murder case.  It set bail at P200,000.

The warrant was approved by Presiding Judge Carmelita Sarno-Davin last March 2.

Last January, the DOJ indicted Matobato in relation to the ambush of retired agrarian reform adjudicator lawyer Abeto Salcedo Jr.  The Digos city prosecutor's office found probable cause in the frustrated murder case and indicted them.

 “You are hereby commanded to arrest Edgar Matobato, who is said to be found at Sagrada Pamilia, Sasa, Davao City, and who stands charged before me with the crime of Frustrated Murder and to bring him forthwith before me as soon as possible to be dealt it with according to law,” Judge Carmelita Sarno-Davin wrote in the warrant.

This is the second time Matobato has posted bail.

Sen.  Antonio “Sonny” Trillanes IV on Wednesday said Matobato also posted bail for another case in relation to illegal carrying of firearms.

Last October, Matobato surrendered to the Philippine National Police after a Davao City court issued a warrant for his arrest over charges for carrying a .45-caliber pistol without a permit.

Matobato failed to show up at a scheduled hearing, prompting the court to order him arrested. Trillanes defended him saying Matobato had no intention to snub his Davao City arraignment. —Rosette Adel