Criminal raps filed vs prison guards over escape of Ozamiz gang leader

MANILA, Philippines—Criminal and administrative charges have been filed against personnel of the New Bilibid Prison responsible for the December 2012 escape of Ozamiz robbery gang leader Ricky Cadavero from the national penitentiary in Muntinlupa.

Facing criminal case for evasion through negligence under Article 224 of the Revised Penal Code are Prison Guards 1 Roberto Tensuan, Eduardo Aquino, Nino De Vera and Oswaldo Montes.

Meanwhile, slapped with an administrative case for neglect of duty are Prison Security Officer 1 Geraldo Salamat, Prison Guard 3 Ronilo Salonga and PG1 Rodolfo Geronimo.

Cadavero who escaped last year was recaptured by operatives led by Chief Superintendent Benito Estipona together with Superintendent Danilo Mendoza in coordination with the Officer for Security and Operations of the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor).

Cadavero and Wilfredo Damas Ponolinga were arrested last July 12 in their hideout in San Agustin village, Dasmariñas, Cavite.

The BuCor has already filed an additional case of evasion of sentence against Cadavero before the Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court Branch 80.

Justice Secretary Leila De Lima said Cadavero has been turned over to the BuCor.