The Philippine National Police- Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) said that it has already detained Joel and Mario Reyes, suspects in the killing of environmental activist and journalist Gerry Ortega after they were earlier arrested and deported in Thailand.
Upon the arrival of the Reyes brothers in Manila, the PNP-CIDG Detention Center will temporarily hold the suspects until the issuance of the commitment order from the Palawan Regional Trial Court (RTC).
PNP Chief Ricardo Marquez said that the successful arrest of the Reyes brothers was the result of the hard work and coordination of the Philippine National Police, Interpol and counterparts from Thai Royal Police. This also exemplified the strong relationship of the PNP with the International law enforcement community.
Joel Reyes, former Governor of Palawan, and Mario Reyes, also a former mayor of Coron, are prominent officials accused in the murder of Jerry Ortega who had been vocal in his criticism of local government officials in Palawan for their alleged misuse of funds for the Malampaya gas field.
The Reyes brothers were said to be hiding in Phuket, Thailand and were going by the aliases of “Johnny” (for Joel) and “ Nicky” (for Mario).
The Thai Police arrested the Reyes Brothers on Semptember 20. The police then conducted deportation proceedings for illegal entry and overstaying of the two which took only five days.
