5 face murder raps for model's death

MANILA, Philippines - Police are preparing murder charges against at least five persons in relation to the death of a teenage male model who fell from an 18th-floor unit at a condominium building in Quezon City.

The presence of Manuel Osias, Antonio Pena Jr., Ryan Lilan, Lucky Mercado and R.A Carlos at the condominium unit during a supposed party that led to the death of Benjie Peralta on June 24 was the basis for charging them, said Superintendent Gerardo Ratuita, chief of the Quezon City Police District-Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit.

Ratuita said the five suspects have been “evasive” in providing information about what happened before Peralta’s death. “Let them prove their innocence before the fiscal,” he said.

Peralta’s uncle, Gary Garcia, said based on statements by some of the suspects, there were 12 persons present at the condominium unit at Victoria Towers in Barangay West Triangle. He said their family hopes the others who were among the 12 would also be charged.

Police Officer 3 Rodel Tumangday said the autopsy report showed Peralta may have taken either shabu or ecstasy.

Ratuita also noted Osias’ refusal to come forward and allow investigators entry to his condominium unit, where the party was held.

Police also found out that a black Toyota Camry (ZHY-847), registered to Pena, allegedly ferried all five suspects out of the building. Security guards reportedly tried to stop the car.

Mercado claimed he left before Peralta fell to his death. Lilan said Peralta ran and hurled himself against the glass wall of the unit, then was killed when he fell 12 stories.

But Peralta’s family claimed there were indications that the teenager did not fall on his own, including abrasions he sustained on his throat. Peralta also sustained hematoma in both eyes.

– Reinir Padua