A policeman, who confessed involvement in the disappearance and death of Kristine Joy Dignadice of Victorias City voluntarily surrendered to PBrig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, regional director of Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), on Saturday.
According to PRO-NIR, the 43-year-old prime suspect, who is assigned at the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), identified the place where he left the 42-year-old victim’s body, which is in the area of Barangay Don Jorge Araneta, Bago City.
The body of Dignadice was retrieved from a sugarcane field and was brought to Peñafiel Funeral Homes.
The investigation started after an abandoned gray Hyundai Accent (FAD-8113) with bloodstains, identified to be owned by Dignadice, was found in Sitio So-ol, Barangay Gargato, Hinigaran, Negros Occidental on Oct. 29.
Meanwhile, the BCPO led by Col. Joeresty Coronica issued a statement on the involvement of one of its personnel in the incident.
In relation to the incident involving the victim, Kristine Joy Dignadice, whose body was found today in Barangay Don Jorge Araneta, Bago City, the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) strongly condemns and does not condone any form of criminal act committed by any of its personnel.
The BCPO extends its deepest condolences to the bereaved family of the victim during this difficult time. The Office reaffirms that no one is above the law and that accountability will be pursued through due process.
It remains steadfast in upholding the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and professionalism in the performance of its duties and continues to cooperate with investigative bodies to ensure transparency and justice.
On the other hand, Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez and Victorias City Mayor Abelardo Bantug III led Victoriasanons in mourning the death of fellow resident
In a statement, Benitez said the “act is beyond acceptance”, describing her death as brutal “at the hands of someone sworn to serve and protect”.
“As Kristine Joy’s family and friends cry out for justice, let our grieving hearts unite in demanding the full force of the law to bring fairness and closure to her senseless death,” the lawmaker said.
In a separate statement, Bantug said the city government extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Dignadice.
“Kristine Joy was a mother, a sister, a friend, and a fellow Victoriasanon, a cherished member of our community whose life was taken in a senseless, and inhumane act of violence,” the mayor said.
He added: “The City Government of Victorias strongly condemns this brutal act that has shaken our city and filled our people with sorrow and outrage. We stand in full solidarity with her family and with all Victoriasanons who mourn her passing”.
“We are extending every possible assistance to Lotlot’s family and are working closely with law enforcement authorities to make sure justice is served and the person responsible is held fully accountable,” Bantug said. ||
