NBI still gathering evidence on Clarin, Misamis Occidental mayor slay

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) is still gathering evidence on the killing of Clarin, Misamis Occidental mayor David Navarro and looking into all possible motives, the bureau's spokesman said Monday.

The NBI is weeks into an investigation of the murder of the mayor, who was on the government's list of politicians involved in the illegal drug trade, but has yet to disclose even partial findings.

Navarro was killed in an ambush in Cebu City on October 25, reportedly by no less than four suspects armed with high-powered firearms who immediately fled the scene.

He was killed while on his way to the city prosecutor's office. He was arrested the night before the attack for allegedly punching a massage therapist.

NBI spokesman Ferdinand Lavin told reporters Monday that the Philippine National Police has turned over some of the evidence to the NBI's Cebu office.

"We continue to gather the pieces of evidence," he said, adding that he cannot disclose information about any person of interest or motive at present.

He said the NBI is looking into all possible angles, including the late mayor's personal life, his alleged drug links, and politics.

"They are very extra cautious in their investigation," he said, referring to the investigators in Cebu.

No less than President Rodrigo Duterte tapped the NBI to handle the investigation. — RSJ, GMA News