MEMBERS of the Makabayan bloc are seeking a congressional inquiry on the death of Davao-based businesswoman and model Yvonne Chua Plaza.
The lawmakers composed of representatives from Gabriela, ACT Teachers, and Kabataan filed House Resolution 729 asking the House Committee on Women and Gender Equality to conduct an investigation.
"The case of Plaza adds up to the numerous cases of violence against women perpetrated by men in uniform. It also proves that the culture of violence continues to thrive inside the Armed Forces of the Philippines," the resolution read.
Plaza was killed outside her house by two gunmen.
The Police Regional Office-Davao’s (PRO-Davao) Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) bared that BGen. Jesus Durante III, a Brigade Commander of 1001st Brigade under the 10th Infantry Division (10ID) and former Presidential Security Group chief, was the mastermind of the killing.
The task group said that the murder may have been a crime of passion.
Aside from Durante, the SITG said they have identified 10 persons who are allegedly involved in the murder of Plaza. Of the 10, seven are personnel of the 1001st Brigade of the Philippine Army, one is a civilian, and two other "John Does," who have yet to be determined if they are civilians or part of the same brigade.
“Durante and the other army officers involved must immediately be held accountable for their crimes,” the resolution read.
The Philippine Army (PA) has taken Durante into custody.
Army chief Lieutenant General Romeo Brawner said administrative charges have also been filed before the military’s court martial.
Brawner also said Durante was relieved from his post. RGL