PNP ensures probe of Zulueta’s death

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has given assurance that it would investigate the death of Ricardo Zulueta, one of the principal suspects in the murder of radio broadcaster Percival Mabasa or Percy Lapid.

At a press briefing at Camp Crame yesterday, PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo provided updates regarding the death of Zulueta and addressed doubts surrounding the circumstances of his passing.

Fajardo said it was Zulueta’s brother who brought him to the hospital for treatment of a “heart failure.”

“A death certificate has been issued, citing the cause of death as cerebrovascular disease intracranial hemorrhage,” Fajardo said.

Zulueta, former deputy security officer at the Bureau of Corrections, was indicted along with his superior, former BuCor chief Gerald Bantag, for the murder of Lapid in October 2022.

Citing family’s account and medical findings, Fajardo said there was no foul play in Zulueta’s death.

She said the PNP respects the family’s request for privacy and that relatives have expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities in shedding light on Zulueta’s activities prior to his death.

Fajardo said the Department of Justice, which ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the death of Zulueta, is coordinating with the local Police.

The NBI has obtained Zulueta’s photographs and fingerprints with the permission of the relatives.

Fajardo said the family’s consent is needed before an autopsy could be conducted on Zulueta’s remains.

She said the family of Lapid has expressed doubts on the circumstances surrounding the death of Zulueta and sought an autopsy by forensic expert Raquel Fortun.

The Bataan police will investigate to determine how long Zulueta had been staying in the area before he died last Friday.

“The PNP is open to assisting the DOJ in investigating any instance of harboring or obstruction of justice related to Zulueta’s case,” Fajardo said.