Remulla admits hoping drug lords killed Lapid instead of Bantag

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla admitted he initially hoped other groups, particularly drug lords, were responsible for the killing of broadcaster Percy Lapid instead of suspended BuCor chief Gerald Bantag.

The NBI and PNP have identified Bantag and BuCor Deputy Security Officer Ricardo Zulueta as alleged masterminds behind Lapid's killing, and murder complaints have been filed against them and other inmates before the DOJ.

The NBI confirmed Bantag and Zulueta are still in the Philippines and are trying to secure a precautionary hold departure order against them, with no arrest warrant yet issued for Bantag.

Authorities and Lapid's family are urging Bantag to surrender and provide more information, with Lapid's brother Roy Mabasa saying Bantag might qualify for the Witness Protection Program if he reveals additional names related to the case.

The PNP remains open to the possibility of a more powerful mastermind behind the killing and said supplemental complaints may be filed if new evidence emerges during the investigation or trial.