CASES OF murder and attempted murder were filed against four suspects in the fatal shooting of Juanita Veloso in Kananga, Leyte last December 21, 2022.
Provincial Director Police Col. Edwin Balles of the Leyte Provincial Police Office (LPPO) said the cases were filed at the Leyte Provincial Prosecutor’s Office against James Damayo, Archie Cosinillo and two other John Does last January 18, 2023. Damayo and Cosinillo are both residents of Tabango, Leyte.
Veloso, an older sister of San Isidro, Leyte Mayor Remedio Veloso, was shot to death by the assailant along the National Highway of Brgy. Libongao, Kananga, Leyte at about 4:30 in the afternoon of December 21, 2022 while on their way home from Ormoc City.
Mayor Veloso’s wife Leleena, 61, and driver Edmil Bacay, who were together with the victim in the vehicle, were both unharmed.
Balles formed a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) to conduct a thorough investigation on the incident, which the public perceived to be politically motivated. In less than a month, the SITG wrapped up its investigation with the filing of criminal cases against the suspects.
“I commend the efforts and dedication of our police operatives in making an effective case-build up against the suspects,” Balles said.
He said the cooperation of the members of the community as well as the witnesses, supported by the CCTV footage recovered in the course of the investigation, played a vital role in the effective information gathering, which eventually led to the successful filing of criminal charges.
“The Task Group was able to successfully gather pieces of evidence coupled with the sufficient information, proper coordination with other law enforcement units,” he added. Balles said the formal filing of the criminal cases against the suspects is a relief for the family, relatives, and friends of Veloso. By Elmer Recuerdo (EV Mail January 16-22, 2023 issue)
