LUMBAN, Laguna – The Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) expressed sadness over the recent incident involving NorthPort guard John Amores, who allegedly fired gunshots at Lee Cacalda along Manila East Road.
In a statement released on Thursday, Commissioner Willie Marcial said the incident was unfortunate but emphasized that the police would be handling the investigation. “This is a matter subject to investigation by the police, and we cannot comment on it. But we are saddened by such an unfortunate incident,” Marcial said.
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, basing their findings on evidence, CCTV footage, and statements from the victim and witnesses. Major Bob Ordiz, the chief of the municipal police station, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that the final resolution of Amores’ case would depend on the gathered information.
Reports suggest that the incident stemmed from a disagreement during a pick-up game, where a PHP4,000 bet was on the line. The confrontation escalated, leading to the gunning incident.
Amores and his younger brother surrendered to the police on Thursday due to threats from Cacalda’s camp. They were subsequently brought to the Laguna Regional Trial Court for a preliminary inquest and then to the Laguna PNP headquarters for a paraffin test.
The Amores brothers are facing charges of attempted murder, which could result in a prison sentence of six to 12 years if found guilty. The police are awaiting the bail bond amount to be set, but it is expected to be between PHP24,000 and PHP200,000.