BCPO reports 11 unsolved murder cases since January

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY— The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) has committed to intensifying its efforts to resolve 11 unsolved murder cases recorded between January and July this year, which have raised community concerns.

Of the 11 cases, nine have identified motives and persons of interest, but the families involved have executed affidavits of non-interest, which has hampered further investigation.

The cases include:

• John Paul Montaño and Christopher Mondejar in Barangay Alijis on January 25
• Jefferson Diane in Barangay 2 on February 8
• An unidentified victim in Barangay 2 on February 13
• A call center agent in Barangay Taculing on February 24
• Benjoe San Jose in Barangay 2 on March 24
• Babes Gonzales in Barangay 14 on April 29
• Benjie Fajardo in Barangay 37 on June 1
• Niño Baldevia in Barangay Taculing on July 10
• Joemarie Villapaña in Barangay 2 on July 11
• A 12-year-old boy in Barangay 12 on July 13
• Gregg Alvin Gelito in Barangay Sum-ag on July 16

Police Colonel Joeresty Coronica, BCPO officer-in-charge, has instructed all 10 police stations and investigative units to prioritize these murder cases, as well as other significant cases such as rape, robbery, theft, and motor vehicle theft.

This directive comes in response to the increasing demand for justice and the relentless pursuit of those responsible for these crimes.

Earlier, Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez offered cash rewards ranging from P20,000 to P50,000 to anyone who can provide information leading to the resolution of these cases.

The reward amount depends on the value of the testimonies, and if there are multiple witnesses, the reward will be distributed equally, according to the BCPO.

The BCPO has also urged the public to assist by providing any information that could be crucial in solving these cases. They have assured the public that anonymous tips will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

The BCPO reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and serving the community with integrity and dedication and remains resolute in its mission to deliver justice to the affected families.