Army official breaks silence on posts linking him to Yvonette Plaza slay

A ranking officer of the Philippine Army has released a statement as regards the social media posts which linked him to the killing of businesswoman Yvonette Plaza in late December.

According to the "24 Oras" report of GMA Regional TV One Mindanao's Kent Abrigana, Brigadier General Jesus Durante III said his name was being dragged because of a Facebook item Plaza posted in April 2022.

“Yvonne was a friend. My name is being dragged based on an FB post made last April 2022 wherein I allegedly hurt her. She later retracted the post and issued a statement that I did not in any way harm her,” Durante said.

“I am deeply saddened by her demise and condole with her family and friends. I, myself, demand justice for Yvonne,” he added.

The police have set aside the robbery as a likely motive in the killing but were reportedly continuing to look into the possible involvement of a military official.

A P1-million bounty has been put up by the police for anyone who has information that will lead to the resolution of the gruesome murder.

Earlier, the Davao City Police set up a task force to lead the probe. They have also acquired possession of the victim’s mobile phone and other gadgets and are eyeing to resolve the case in two weeks. —Sundy Locus/NB, GMA Integrated News