Senate probe into Degamo killing set for April 17

The Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs will start its investigation into the assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo on April 17, the office of Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said Monday.

According to the senator’s office, the date was “requested” by Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, widow of the slain governor.

In an interview with Dela Rosa last week, he said the  Department of Justice has asked the Senate panel to “delay” the inquiry so it can focus on the filing of  cases against the alleged masterminds in the killing.

The Senate panel was supposed to conduct an inquiry on March 15 but it was postponed.

Degamo and eight others were killed while several others were injured in an attack by gunmen at the governor’s home on March 4.

Earlier in the day, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said suspended Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. appears to be the main mastermind in the killing of Degamo.

Teves has denied involvement in Degamo's assassination. —Hana Bordey/KBK, GMA Integrated News