Slain journalist’s family wants ex-governor Carreon among the accused

MANILA, Philippines—Relatives of slain journalist Gerry Ortega on Wednesday said they will push for the inclusion of former Marinduque Governor Jose Antonio “Bong” Carreon to the crime of murder.

At a press conference in Manila, lawyer Alex Avisado said they will file a partial motion for reconsideration to include Carreon on the murder case filed by the Department of Justice (DoJ) against former Palawan Governor Joel Reyes, former Palawan administrator Romeo Serratubias, Reyes’ brother and incumbent Coron Mayor Mario Reyes, and provincial government employees Arturo Regalado and Percival Lecias.

Carreon was the one who referred star witness Rodolfo Edrad Jr. to the former Palawan governor. Edrad allegedly scouted the gunman that would kill Ortega.

“Since we are alleging conspiracy, the act of one means the act of all,” Avisado said.

The DoJ has already amended the information it has filed in the Palawan Regional Trial Court to include Reyes and four others.

Ortega’s daughter said they are thankful for the DoJ for its resolution.

“This is a step forward but the road ahead requires even more steps. We are all being called to commitment against impunity—a call to choose to rage against the killings and pursue justice everyday from hereon out,” Michaella Ortega said.