The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) in Negros Occidental is set to conduct a “motu proprio” investigation on the killing of Julius Denagiba, Jr. in Hacienda Bilabail, Barangay Tugis, Hinigaran town, last year, a press release from Task Force Mapalad said Tuesday, January 25.
CHR-Negros Head Romeo Baldevarona said they have already included Denagiba’s murder among the 16 cases to be docketed within this month, TFM added.
The CHR will then file its recommendation to the CHR-Central Office in Manila later, he said.
Denagiba, 35, according to a police report, was shot dead by security guards at the hacienda on June 23, 2021, TFM said.
Police filed murder against the suspects at the Himamaylan City Regional Trial Court (RTC).
The court already issued warrants of arrest against the suspects who, until now, remain at-large.
Newly-installed Hinigaran Police chief, Capt. Ryan Villasoria, vowed to look into the progress of the case, TFM said.
Denagiba’s murder was labeled as Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP)-related killing in Negros last year, TFM added.
His wife believed that his being vocal against the owners of Hacienda Bilabail triggered the killing, it added.*