Suspect in Laguna driver’s killing released

LAGUNA, Philippines  – The prime suspect in the killing of a woman driver whose body, which bore 54 stab wounds, was found in her car in Calamba City last month has been released.

Citing lack of evidence, the city prosecutor’s office ordered the release of Anna Sheila Montes Belarmino on Thursday.

The witnesses who identified Belarmino through video footage of a closed-circuit television camera as the person last seen with victim, reportedly retracted their statements.

Belarmino, who had earlier expressed her intention to execute an extrajudicial confession, also reportedly changed her mind.

“The police should continue their homework to have an airtight case,” a source privy to the investigation said.

Lt. Col. Gene Licud, Calamba City police chief, said Belarmino remains a suspect in the killing.

Jingle ”Jang” Lucero was found dead in her car along the Bucal bypass road in Barangay Maunong on June 28.

Probers are eyeing a love triangle as the motive for the killing. A manhunt for five other suspects is underway.