The Manila Police District (MPD) through its Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) announced Monday that a person of interest is now in their custody amid an ongoing probe on the robbery incident that left two Japanese nationals dead in Malate, Manila over the weekend.
Through meticulous backtracking and verification of events, including the retrieval of critical CCTV footage, the MPD established the movements of this individual before and after the crime. He was identified as the tour guide of the victims.
Police are also currently pursuing leads to verify the identity of the suspected gunman, who remains at large. They are closely examining multiple CCTV recordings across different areas in Manila and Pasay City.
MPD chief Brigadier Gen. Arnold Abad earlier formed SITG Malvar to investigate the case and ensure that the victims would receive justice.
The shooting incident occurred on late Saturday evening, August 15, along Malvar corner Mabini streets—opposite the Sheraton Hotel in Malate, Manila.
Preliminary findings suggest that the robbery was a secondary act intended to mislead investigators. Authorities are looking into the possibility that the victims were murdered.
The Japanese Embassy in the Philippines has offered condolences to the families of the victims.
“We express our condolences to the deceased and we are currently coordinating and confirming the details of the incident with the Philippine authorities, and are providing support to the bereaved family members of the deceased,” it said in a statement.
The embassy also urged Japanese nationals in the Philippines to prioritize safety and exercise caution.
Abad vowed to be relentless in their effort to bring those responsible for the crime to justice.
“We reaffirm our dedication to delivering justice for the victims while safeguarding the integrity of the ongoing investigation. Further updates will be provided as the case develops,” the MPD said in a statement.
Manila Mayor Francisco ‘Isko Moreno’ Domagoso, meanwhile, extended a message of solidarity with the victims’ families.
“We will continue to work closely with the PNP (Philippine National police) and other concerned agencies to bring the full force of the law against those responsible and to safeguard the peace and order that all residents and visitors of Manila rightfully deserve,” Domagoso said. —with Katrina Manubay and Pot Chavez
