NBI tasked to investigate killings of NCMH chief, PCSO board secretary

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra has ordered an investigation into the killings of officials of the National Center for Mental Health (NCMH) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO).

Guevarra directed the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a case buildup on the killings of NCMH chief Roland Cortez, his driver, Ernesto dela Cruz; and PCSO board secretary Wesley Barayuga and to file charges against the perpetrators if the evidence warrants.

Cortez and Dela Cruz were shot dead by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Quezon City on July 27. Barayuga was killed three days later in Mandaluyong.

Police said Cortez had received death threats prior to the shooting incident.

“Dr. Cortez was a respected leader who sought to treat clients with utmost dignity. DOH is coordinating with authorities and the PNP-CIDU to ensure that the perpetrators are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” the Department of Health said following his death.

Police also said the attack on Barayuga may have been work-related. — Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/RSJ, GMA News