Monkayo mayor’s slay probe ordered

TAGUM CITY — President Arroyo ordered yesterday a thorough investigation on the killing of Mayor Joel Brillantes of Monkayo Compostela Valley as she also ordered that all suspects should be accounted for, including their mastermind.

Mrs. Arroyo arrived here yesterday as she graced the 36th founding anniversary of Davao del Norte and Davao Oriental.

The President also directed the military to work with the local government units and the police in Monkayo to enforce law and order in the area.

The lone assassin, Anecito Dejeto Sr., was reportedly offered P1 million by the mastermind, who is believed to be also involved in the mining industry at the Mt. Diwalwal gold rush area.

Dejeto, who was a member of the barangay police in Sto. Tomas, Davao del Norte, was himself killed immediately after he shot Brilliantes twice in the head inside the Martina Gallera cockpit here.

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) head Chief Supt. Eduardo Matillano disclosed to reporters the monetary offer in exchange for the mission to kill Brilliantes.