(PNA photo by Avito Dalan)
MANILA – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin ‘Benhur’ Abalos Jr. announced on Wednesday night that he is offering a PHP500,000 reward for anyone who can give information that could lead to the arrest of the culprits behind the killing of veteran radio host Percival Mabasa, more popularly known as “Percy Lapid”.
Abalos made this remark during his visit to Lapid's wake at the Manila Memorial Park in Parañaque City on Wednesday night, explaining that the cash reward will be sourced from his personal funds.
"I am offering P500,000 from my own money, for any information na makakatulong pa sa imbestigasyon (that can aid in the investigation)," Abalos said in his statement.
He also assured Lapid’s bereaved family members that the government will use all of its resources to identify the perpetrators of the crime and that the Philippine National Police (PNP) is extensively looking at all possible angles and leads to resolve the case.
Earlier, Abalos vowed to resolve the case and have the suspects put behind bars and be held liable for Lapid’s slaying.
He added the DILG and PNP commit to delivering justice to the family of Lapid and bring the suspect/s behind bars to answer for their crime.
“The Department stands by its mandate of protecting the Filipino people towards a more peaceful and orderly Philippines including the hard-working media practitioners across the country who have been partners of the government in information dissemination and most importantly, in serving as watchdogs for the benefit of the public,” he added.
Lapid was ambushed by two assailants onboard a motorcycle at around 8:30 p.m. Monday at the gate of BF Resort along Aria Street, Barangay Talon 2, Las Piñas City.
A special investigation task group has been formed to probe Lapid's killing. (PNA)
