PNP chief: P8M debt motive in Mima Alicia slay; 2 masterminds identified

PHILIPPINE National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. confirmed on Friday that the killing of vlogger Alicia “Mima Alicia” Lipata is linked to an alleged ₱8‑million debt.

Speaking to reporters in Boracay, the PNP chief stated that investigators have already identified and filed charges against at least two masterminds—described as a businessman and his associate—who remain at large.

Nartatez explained that the attack stemmed from a personal grudge rooted in an unpaid obligation.

“They have a personal grudge that started over a debt. As of now, that is the motive… Mima was one in debt,” he said. While the masterminds have been named in the complaint, their identities are being withheld to protect the ongoing investigation. “Cases have been filed. They are named. We’ve unmasked them, but they are at large,” the police chief added.

Lipata, a known supporter of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., was shot dead by a motorcycle‑riding assailant in front of her home in Caloocan City early on July 17.

Authorities earlier arrested the gunman and his getaway driver in Mabalacat City, Pampanga last July 23. The PNP previously noted that the two arrested men were believed to have been hired to carry out the killing, with the probe now focused on tracking down and apprehending the alleged masterminds behind the contract.