4 'Baktin' men seek to cut bail

A COUNSEL for four accused believed to be members of the "Baktin Carnapping Group" filed a petition to reduce bail before the Regional Trial Court (RTC).

In a phone interview, Lawyer Heracleo Malaki III said he filed the motion before the RTC Branch 17 on Monday.

In a resolution, Prosecutor Victoriano Bello Jr. found probable cause to charge with carnapping Gerry Paulino, 30, of NHA Buhangin, Davao City; Diego Macatimbang, 19, of Sigaboy, Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental; Eddie Lopez, 19, of Balite, Marilog district, Davao City; and Hermie Tahom, 36, of San Agustin, Surigao del Sur.

Bello recommended P180,000 bail each of the accused.

In his petition, Malaki said he asked the court to reduce the bail from P180,000 to P90,000 for his clients.

Based on their conversation, the counsel said his clients wanted for their release.

However, a television report on Tuesday said the two of the four suspects do not want to be out from jail.

Paulino and Macamtimbang said it's safer for them to be inside detention, considering the consequence of their situation.

Meanwhile, Tahom said he is seeking for his temporary liberty since he misses his family.

Lopez, on the other hand, is left undecided.

"Studyhan ‘sa nako unsa maayong remedy para sa mga na-confiscate na mga vehicles para mabawi," Malaki told Sun.Star Davao.

He said he is also the counsel for Yu, but was quick to add that he has no idea of the whereabouts of the alleged car syndicate leader.