Mindoro radioman slay suspect back in NBI custody

MANILA, Philippines — A court in Oriental Mindoro has approved the transfer of the alleged gunman in the killing of radio commentator Cresenciano Bundoquin to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

Calapan City Regional Trial Court Branch 40 Judge Charity Grace Rico directed the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)-Calapan to transfer Isabelo Bautista to the NBI-Mimaropa custodial facility in Barangay Sta. Isabel.

Bautista was detained at the BJMP under a commitment order dated July 12 after a 15-day stay at the NBI headquarters in Manila.

He surrendered to the NBI on June 27.

Bautista’s lawyers requested for the transfer of their client, citing serious threats to his life.

The suspect has repeatedly denied involvement in the killing of Bondoquin of Kalahi  News FM and MUX online radio.

Bautista vowed to cooperate with the NBI and the Philippine National Police, which are conducting parallel probes.

Witnesses said motorcycle-riding men, one of them identified as Bautista, shot Bundoquin in front of his rented store in Barangay Sta. Isabel on May 31.

Another suspect, Nicasio Guntan, died when he fell from the motorcycle while attempting to escape.

Bautista is facing murder and attempted murder charges.