Syjuco blames rival for death of ‘Asin’ singer

ILOILO CITY — Iloilo’s second district Rep. Augusto Syjuco has blamed his opponent, board member Rodolfo Cabado, for the death of famous Ilonggo singer Cesar "Saro" Bañares of the group Asin inside a karaoke bar in Koronadal, South Cotabato eight years ago.

In a press statement, Syjuco said Cabado allegedly triggered the incident when he resented Bañares’ refusal to sit at his table and sing for his group on the night of March 18, 1993.

Syjuco, who is seeking re-election, said Cabado’s companions ganged up on the defenseless Bañares and that the board member did nothing to stop the attack.

Cabado was the provincial attorney of South Cotabato at the time of the incident.

Syjuco alleged that Cabado broke his lawyer’s oath when he told the court that he did not see the accused box, kick and later shoot the singer.

"As a lawyer, Cabado is considered a guardian of truth and the rule of law," Syjuco said in the statement furnished The STAR.

Three of Cabado’s companions, lawyer Gualberto Cataluña and brothers Joselito and Joel Castracion, were found guilty beyond reasonable doubt on May 26 last year by the Koronadal Regional Trial Court.

The three are serving their life sentences at the National Penitentiary in Muntinlupa City.

Cabado, however, said Syjuco should examine the records of the case which is in the Supreme Court for review.

"Syjuco should not make unnecessary comments because the case of Saro is now with the Supreme Court (for) review. And I believe that those three who were convicted were all innocent," he said.