On Monday, August 30, the Senate began its investigation into the recent killings in Negros Oriental and the assassination of former Governor Roel Degamo. One of the main points of interest is whether the Senate will allow former Negros Oriental Congressman Pryde Henry Teves to testify via Zoom.
Teves had requested to appear remotely due to health concerns, but the Degamo family objected, arguing that they had to appear in person and that Teves should do the same.
The Senate also heard from witnesses during the investigation, including the wife of Roel Degamo, who had been with him at the time of the assassination, and several other people who had witnessed the recent spate of killings in the region.
The investigation is seen as a crucial step in uncovering the truth behind the killings and identifying those responsible. Many have called for justice for the victims, and the Senate is under pressure to ensure that the investigation is both thorough and transparent.
The Senate probe is occurring simultaneously with an investigation by the Department of Justice, which is also looking into the killings. The DOJ has already interviewed several witnesses and sought information from local authorities.
In recent years, Negros Oriental has been plagued by violence and unrest, with many farmers and activists targeted by armed groups. Human rights groups have criticized the government’s response to the violence, arguing that it has been too slow and insufficient.
The deaths of Roel Degamo and the others have only added to the climate of fear and uncertainty in the region. Many are hoping that the Senate investigation will shed light on the situation and provide a path towards peace and justice.
In the meantime, residents of Negros Oriental continue to live in fear, uncertain of what the future holds. The killings have left deep scars on the community, and it will take time and effort to heal those wounds. The Senate investigation is a crucial step in that process, but it will require cooperation and transparency from all parties involved.
Overall, the Senate probe into the Negros Oriental killings and the assassination of Roel Degamo is a critical development in the ongoing struggle for justice and peace in the region. While the investigation is still ongoing, many are hopeful that it will help bring the perpetrators to justice and provide some measure of closure for the victims and their families.
