No takers for Daraga mayor Carlwyn Baldo’s cases

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — The judges of two regional trial courts (RTC) in this city have inhibited from handling the cases filed against Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo.

The judges of Legazpi RTC Branches 1 and 2 did not explain why they are inhibiting from the cases.

The Camarines Sur prosecutor’s office issued a resolution on Feb. 22 finding probable cause to file charges for three counts of  illegal possession of firearms, ammunition and explosives against Baldo. Bail was recommended at P440,000.

Baldo’s spokesman Eugene Sangil confirmed that the mayor posted bail upon receiving a copy of the resolution.

Sources told The STAR that the cases would be raffled to courts in Tabaco City due to their proximity to Daraga.

Baldo is the alleged mastermind in the killing of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe and his escort Patrolman Orlando Diaz in Barangay Burgos, Daraga last Dec. 22.

The complaints in connection with the killings are still under preliminary investigation.

Baldo was arrested last January after two caliber .45 pistols with eight bullets and ammunition for an M203 grenade launcher and rifle were reportedly recovered during a raid on his house in Barangay Tagas.

Baldo was also suspended from office.

He reassumed his post following his release from the custody of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group office in Bicol on Feb. 14.

RTC Branch 10 Judge Maria Theresa Loquillano granted Baldo’s motion to post bail, which was set at P3 million.

Baldo’s lawyers are expected to file a motion to get back the P3 million after the prosecutor’s office allowed him to post a lower amount.