Cavite kidnapper sentenced to life imprisonment

CAVITE, Philippines — A man has been sentenced to life imprisonment for kidnapping a businessman 13 years ago.

Virgilio Cupino was found guilty of kidnapping Michael Vincent Armas in Amadeo, Cavite, Regional Trial Court Branch 18 acting presiding judge Jaime Santiago said in a 17-page decision issued on Wednesday.

“This is a vindication of a wrongdoing that has been done to my family, a vindication of our struggle for justice. It has been a very long wait,” Emil, father of the victim, said.

Armas and and his two friends were in a car on their way home after visiting a farm when three armed men blocked their path, blindfolded them and commandeered their vehicle.

Armas’ two friends were immediately released while he was freed three days after his father negotiated with the kidnappers.

Cupino was arrested in an operation following Armas’ release.

Three of Cupino’s alleged cohorts, who have yet to be identified, remain at large.

While the case was being heard, principal witness Elpidio del Mundo was killed in an ambush. His wife also suffered serious injuries that required prolonged hospitalization.