City Council asks PNP, NBI updates on Archival’s slay

CEBU, Philippines - Citing the frightening effect of lawyer Noel Archival’s murder, the Cebu City Council has requested the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation to update them of the case.

Councilor Gerardo Carillo, in a re-solution approved by the council during the regular session yesterday, further requested the investigating bodies to inform them of any logistical support needed for the speedy solution of the case.

“Until date, the brutal killing of Atty. Noel D. Archival has brought a chilling effect among lawyers and members of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines,” said Carillo, also a lawyer.

The council earlier passed a resolution requesting the law enforcement agencies to conduct a “no nonsense” investigation into Archival’s killing.

Councilor Nestor Archival, brother of the slain lawyer, said that while he and his family anticipate the developments on the case, he said they are satisfied with the pace of the investigation.

“So far, it’s okay with us right now. Naa’y part sa investigation na dili nila masulti, kasabot ra pud mi,” said Councilor Archival, who appeared before the weekly session for the first time yesterday since his younger brother was killed on February 18.

Asked if his family is keen on putting up a reward to anyone who can give authorities information about his brother’s killers, Councilor Archival said that there have actually been offers.

“But it’s not the proper time, I think,” he said.

The councilor is confident that with the coordination of the PNP, through the Police Regional Office-7, and the NBI-7, the case would be immediately solved.

He said that they will get updates in the next meeting with the investigators on Monday.

Lawyer Archival, who handled high-profile cases, and two of his aides were killed after they were ambushed by unidentified men along the national highway in Barangay Coro, Dalaguete town. — (FREEMAN)