Police eye 'somebody higher' in Davao broadcaster's slay

DAVAO CITY , Philippines  – Authorities believe that “somebody higher” ordered the killing of broadcaster Jesiderio Camangyan, 52, while he was hosting a singing contest in Manay, Davao Oriental last June 14.

CIDG Southern Mindanao chief Generoso Bonifacio said evidence gathered by investigators indicated that the two suspects – PO2 Dennis Jess Lumikid and Old Macopa barangay chief Romeo Antoling – were not alone in pulling off the killing.

Murder charges were filed last Monday against Lumikid and Romeo Antoling, both tagged by witnesses in Camangyan’s slay. The two are still at large, police said.

“I don’t think it stops at the level of Lumikid and Antoling. What will they get out of killing Camangyan? Nothing,” Bonifacio said.

Bonifacio said they are considering placing Camangyan’s common-law wife, Ruth, under the witness protection program to ensure her safety.

Bonifacio said the preliminary hearing on the case would be held in Davao City where the regional prosecutors’ office is located, even if the case was filed in the capital town of Mati City.

Camangyan was a known critic of illegal mining and illegal logging in Davao Oriental, on his daily radio program over Sunrise Radio based in Mati City.

Bonifacio said it could also be possible that local politicians might have a hand in Camangyan’s killing.

Camangyan was reportedly confronted by a local politician who said he could have the broadcaster killed for only P50,000.

“There are so many pieces of evidence that if we piece them together, they would give us a concrete lead in the case,” Bonifacio said.