Army investigating alleged involvement of personnel in businesswoman slay — Brawner

The 10th Infantry Division (10ID) is conducting its own investigation on the alleged involvement of one of its personnel in the killing of businesswoman Yvonette Plaza in Davao City, Philippine Army chief Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner Jr., said Thursday.

Brawner said the Army has advised Brigadier General Jesus Durante III to participate in the investigation.

“The 10ID is already conducting its own investigation. We are waiting for the results. We have advised General Durante to cooperate with any investigation on the allegations against him,” he told reporters.

Durante earlier said his name was being dragged into Plaza’s killing because of a Facebook item the victim posted in April 2022.

“Yvonne was a friend. My name is being dragged based on an FB post made last April 2022 wherein I allegedly hurt her. She later retracted the post and issued a statement that I did not in any way harm her,” Durante said.

“I am deeply saddened by her demise and condole with her family and friends. I, myself, demand justice for Yvonne,” he added.

According to 10ID spokesperson Captain Mark Anthony Tito, so far, there is no formal complaint filed against any of their senior officers in connection with the killing.

“So far, there is no formal request or complaint against one of our senior officers. Thus, we could not take action based on social media,” Tito said.

The 10ID will wait for the result of the investigation by the PNP, he added.

“We will not condone any wrongdoing of our personnel including senior officers,” Tito said.

On December 28, Plaza was found lifeless outside her residence.

A screenshot of CCTV footage showed one of the suspects pointing a gun at Plaza while the other was waiting on their getaway motorcycle.

Their identities have yet to be established as they were both wearing full-face helmets during the incident.

Police are looking at possible motives including a personal grudge, robbery, and business disputes.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News