THE Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the re-arrest of former Palawan governor Mario Joel Reyes in connection with the 2011 murder of environmentalist and broadcaster Dr. Gerry Ortega.
The decision came after the SC denied Reyes’ petition for review and affirmed the amended decision dated November 28, 2019, and resolution dated February 24, 2021, of the Court of Appeals (CA) Special Former Eleventh Division in CA-G.R. SP No. 132847.
Additionally, the temporary restraining order dated March 23, 2022, has been lifted.
In its ruling, the SC stated, “Accordingly, the Regional Trial Court, Branch 52, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, is hereby ORDERED to (1) cause the immediate re-arrest and detention of petitioner Mario Joel T. Reyes; and (2) continue with the proceedings in Criminal Case No. 26839 with utmost dispatch.”
The SC also addressed Reyes’ claims of reversible error, stating, “Unfortunately for petitioner (Reyes), the record thus far shows that the RTC (regional trial court) acted well within its jurisdiction. This, in turn, belies petitioner’s claim that the CA committed reversible error in sustaining the trial court’s decision to proceed with the criminal trial.”
Ortega, a prominent broadcaster and environmentalist, was fatally shot on the morning of January 24, 2011.
Known as an “environmental hero,” Ortega’s murder drew significant attention. Marlon Recamata, the gunman, was arrested and pleaded guilty to the murder in February 2011.
Reyes was identified as the mastermind behind Ortega’s killing by his former bodyguard, Rodolfo Edrad.
Ortega had criticized the former governor for alleged environmental destruction in the province. Reyes’ brother, former Coron Mayor Mario Reyes, was also implicated in the crime.
The Ortega family expressed satisfaction with the SC ruling, saying, “The Ortega Family welcomes the latest development to rearrest former Governor Joel Reyes. Our family is thankful that the Supreme Court sided with truth and justice. We have long hoped and prayed for the trial to continue. This fair decision restores our faith that, one day, we will find justice.”
