DILG increases security for confessed gunman in Percy Lapid slay case

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered increased security for Joel Escorial, the confessed gunman in the murder of Percy Lapid, following the death of Crisanto Villamor Jr., a prison inmate who Escorial identified as the middleman.

DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. stated that Escorial's safety is paramount to the resolution of the case.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. expressed doubt regarding Villamor's death, citing its questionable timing amidst the ongoing investigation.

Azurin is not discounting the possibility of foul play and suggested that Villamor might have been killed by someone within the New Bilibid Prison.

He also questioned earlier reports of Villamor dying in his sleep, stating it is improbable in a congested jail facility.

The PNP chief previously noted a lack of cooperation from the Bureau of Corrections concerning Villamor's death.