MANILA, Philippines—The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) on Tuesday said that two counts of murder have been filed against a couple and their cohort in the killing of Police Senior Master Sergeant Diane Marie Mollenido and her eight-year-old son.
No bail was recommended.
Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio, QCPD director, said the case was filed after the Special Investigation Task Group concluded its probe. Police earlier identified the suspects as Pia Chua Panganiban, 29, who was the policewoman’s godchild, and Christian Suarez Panganiban, a dismissed lawman, and Gil Valdemoro Dy Jr.
“Following an in-depth and thorough investigation, the suspects have been formally charged with two counts of murder, with no bail recommended, after the investigating prosecutor found prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction against them,” Silvio said.
The police said one suspect has been cleared and would serve as a witness.
Meanwhile, the QCPD confirmed that the charge filed against the victim's husband, Police Senior Master Sergeant John Mollenido, has been dropped.
“We are deeply committed to bringing justice to PSMS Diane Marie Mollenido and her young son, John Ysmael. While their loss is irreplaceable, we will continue to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions,” Silvio said.
On Jan. 16, the 38-year-old victim, who was assigned at the National Capital Region Police Office, and her son were reported missing after leaving their home in Taguig City aboard a sports utility vehicle (SUV) which she reportedly intended to sell.
Police said the victims were last seen alive at the couple’s house in Barangay San Agustin, Novaliches, Quezon City.
Three days later, Mollenido’s husband went to the Taguig City Police Station to report the disappearance of his wife and son.
Mollenido's body was found in Pulilan, Bulacan while her son’s remains were discovered at a farm in Victoria, Tarlac.
