THE Philippine Army's 10th Infantry Division has affirmed the charges filed against its member who allegedly killed his fellow soldier at their base at Crossing Malibago in Barangay Malibago in Cateel, Davao Oriental on Saturday.
In a report obtained from the Police Regional Office (PRO) in Davao, the slain soldier was identified as Corporal Dominador Galvano, a squad leader of the 67th Infantry Battalion. The suspect is Private First Class (Pfc.) Mijohn Silva.
Captain Jerry Lamosao, 10th Infantry Division spokesperson, said criminal and administrative charges were already filed against the suspect. He added that the latter is currently under the custody of the Cateel Municipal Police Station.
"The police in coordination with the military have also started the investigation. Pinapaubaya na namin itong nangyari sa legal authorities. Rest assured the Philippine Army will not tolerate soldiers who committed crime," Lamosao said.
Galvano died after he was allegedly shot by Silva around 9 a.m. at their patrol base at Crossing Malibago in Cateel. The incident happened when the victim confronted the suspect, who arrived late at their patrol base and was already intoxicated.
It was reported that the suspect earlier asked permission from the victim that he would be going out with his friends and colleagues to Aliwagwag Falls. The suspect just got mad when he was accosted by the victim, prompting him to shot the latter.
Galvano succumbed to several gunshot wounds in his head. Authorities recovered from the crime scene one M4 rifle, 15 live ammunition, a long magazine, and eight empty bullets. The complaint was filed by the 67th Infantry Battalion.