Negros vice gov, 2 others cleared in judge’s murder

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines – The Department of Justice (DOJ) has dismissed a murder complaint filed against Negros Occidental Vice Gov. Genaro Alvarez Jr.; his son, Ilog Mayor John Paul Alvarez; and Cauayan Vice Mayor Jerry Tabujara in connection with the murder of Kabankalan Judge Henry Arles last year.

The DOJ resolution, received by the Alvarezes’ lawyer on Monday afternoon in Manila, junked the complaint against the three officials for “insufficient evidence.”

The DOJ recommended the filing of similar charges against Emmanuel Medes, an employee of the Ilog municipal government; and alleged Revolutionary Proletarian Armyn – Alex Boncayao Brigade members Marvin Salve, Gerald Tabujara, Rustom Puro, Alejandro Capunong, Jessie Daguia, and Eddie Fortunado.

“We feel vindicated. This only proved that the case against us was politically motivated,” said the elder Alvarez, who is gunning for the gubernatorial post under the Nationalist People’s Coalition against re-electionist Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr.

“I’m so happy. I thank the people who have continued to support us,” said John Paul, who is running for vice mayor.

Arles was gunned down by motorcycle-riding men in Barangay Manalad in Ilog town last year.