By Michelle Ducut
The court has denied the petition of former Daraga, Albay Mayor Carwyn “Awin” Baldo to remain detained at the Camalig Municipal Police Station due to health concerns. Baldo’s legal team had filed an Urgent Omnibus Motion on September 9, 2024, requesting that he remain in the Camalig facility instead of being transferred, citing his health issues such as diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and most recently diagnosed bronchial asthma.
Following the court’s denial, Baldo is set to be moved to Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City, Manila, which has more comprehensive medical facilities.
Baldo surrendered to the Camalig police on August 26, 2024, as the primary suspect in the December 22, 2018, murder of AKO Bicol partylist Representative Rodel Batocabe and his police escort, M/Sgt Orlando Diaz. The arrest warrant was issued by Presiding Judge Acerey Pacheco of the Regional Trial Court in Manila on August 21, 2024, for two murder charges in connection with the attack.
The acting mayor of Daraga, Jungie Jaucian, currently holds office in Baldo’s absence. Meanwhile, the Batocabe family expressed gratitude for the court’s decision, reiterating their call for justice for the slain congressman and his security escort.