Daraga mayor ordered arrested for 2018 murder case

The Regional Trial Court in the National Capital Region (NCR) has issued a new arrest warrant for Carlwyn Baldo, mayor of Daraga, Albay, in connection to the deaths of Ako Bicol Representative Rodel Batocabe and his police aide.

The court released the warrant for two counts of murder against Baldo, with no bail recommended.

Baldo was allegedly involved in the killing of Batocabe and his police aide, Master Sergeant Orlando Diaz, in 2018. Batocabe and Diaz were shot while attending a gift-giving event in Daraga.

The police attempted to arrest Baldo at his residence but he was not there.

In 2019, during a media interview, Baldo denied any involvement in the crime.

Though an initial arrest warrant was issued, Baldo was granted temporary freedom after being allowed to post bail.

"Inosente tabi ako sa anuman na akosasyon laban sakun, di ko po pinaguran si Cong. Batocabe and SPO2 Orlando Diaz," Baldo said.

In response, the Philippine National Police (PNP) assured the public of maintained security and order in Daraga.

Regional Director, PBGEN Andre Dizon, urged Baldo to surrender.

“Mag-surrender na lang siya. Maharap niya yung kaso [at] maidepense niya yung sarili niya at mahirap yung nagtatago po,” Dizon said.

The Batocabe family expressed relief at the court's decision, hoping that justice will be served soon.

"We're very happy with the decision and we're thankful po sa RTC Manila that they issued a warrant of arrest finally," Atty. Justin Batocabe, son of the late Rep. Rodel Batocabe, said. — GMA Regional TV