Third suspect in Mima Alicia slay had surrendered; 3 still at large — PNP

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said a third suspect in the killing of vlogger Alicia "Mima Alicia" Lipata has surrendered to authorities, while three other suspects, including the alleged masterminds, remain at large.

At a press briefing, authorities said the suspect, identified only as "A.F.," voluntarily surrendered on July 24 at the Mabalacat City Police Station in Pampanga.

"This third suspect, the middleman, surrendered. Actually, he was not arrested. He voluntarily surrendered to the Mabalacat Police Station and was endorsed to the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group)," Northern Police District (NPD) director Brig. Gen. Benliner Capili said.

According to police, the surrendered suspect allegedly served as a middleman, facilitating communication and the transfer of money between the alleged mastermind and the gunman.

Capili said two other suspects, identified only as the alleged gunman and driver, were arrested in Mabalacat City on July 23.

Three suspects remain at large: the alleged masterminds known only as "Boss A" and "Jane Doe," and another alleged middleman identified as "C.B."

Police have filed complaints for murder and frustrated murder against all six suspects.

Separate charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act and the law penalizing the unlawful acquisition or possession of explosives have also been filed against the alleged gunman and driver.

Lipata was shot by unidentified assailants outside her home in Caloocan City on July 17. Her live-in partner was also wounded in the attack.

The vlogger was known for her political commentary, openly supporting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. while criticizing Vice President Sara Duterte and her allies.— MCG, GMA News