Three ex-soldiers convicted in Degamo assassination arms case

Three former members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines have been convicted of illegally possessing firearms and explosives in connection with the March 2023 assassination of former Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo. The Manila Regional Trial Court Branch 18 handed down the guilty verdict on Aug. 18, according to court documents made public recently.

The conviction represents progress in the investigation into Degamo's killing, one of the most prominent political murders in the Philippines in recent years. The former governor was shot dead at his residence in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, sparking widespread concern over extrajudicial killings and political violence in the country.

The three defendants were found guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violating laws governing the illegal possession of firearms and explosives. While the court's decision addresses the weapons charges, the case continues to draw scrutiny given the high-profile nature of the victim and questions surrounding the circumstances of his death.

Authorities have maintained that the investigation into Degamo's assassination remains ongoing, with additional charges potentially pending against other individuals involved. The case has prompted renewed calls for stricter enforcement of weapons regulations and greater accountability in handling cases of political violence across the country.