Esperat’s family happy with court’s decision
1:41 p.m. – THE family of slain journalist Marlene Esperat was relieved by the court decision finding the journalist’s killers guilty of murder Friday.
Gerry Cabagay, Randy Grecia, and Estanislao Bismanos were convicted of murder for shooting to death Esperat by Cebu City Regional Trial Court Branch 21 Judge Eric Menchavez.
Valmie Garcia Mariveles, Esperat’s sister, said they are happy to have obtained partial justice for her sister.
Mariveles added they could not find it in their hearts to forgive Esperat’s killers.
“It so difficult to accept that they killed my sister just like that. Maybe they (accused) did it for financial reasons. But still it is hard to accept. Maybe time will heal,” said Mariveles.
Esperat’s legal counsel Nena Santos said they are partially satisfied with the decision of the court, but added: “We cry for justice in so far as the masterminds are concern.”
Santos filed a motion for reconsideration to charge the alleged masterminds–Osmena Montaner and Estrella Sabay–in the killing of Esperat.
She added they will use the testimony of suspect-turned-state witness Rowie Barua against the masterminds.Santos said they filed a motion to dismiss Barua.
While Barua was freed from charges, the slain journalist’s husband George Esperat felt he should have been included.
George said Barua should have also been charged though with a lesser penalty because he turned state witness.
Grecia agreed that it was unfair that the court acquitted Barua of all charges.
Senior State Prosecutor Leo Dacera said Barua, even if he is acquitted, is still under the witness protection program of the Department of Justice. (JRF/Sunnex)