POLICE are focusing their investigation on the Mamac family’s driver of 20 years, as a person of interest in the murder of Maria Teresa “Tess” Mamac, whose body was discovered buried in her Angeles City compound on Monday.
The victim, widow of the late Barangay Balibago chairman Rodelio Mamac, had been missing for four days before her remains were found five feet below ground near her piggery, according to GMA Integrated News.
Police Colonel Joselito Villarosa Jr., Angeles City police chief, stated that the pit appeared to have been prepared in advance, suggesting premeditation. “Based on our investigation, it has been prepared because you cannot make that hole in a short period of time,” he said.
Investigators are awaiting autopsy results to determine the cause of death, though a source indicated the victim had a head wound likely caused by a blunt object.
The family driver is a key focus of the investigation. “According to the witnesses, he was the last person seen with the victim and he was the last person who drove the vehicle,” Villarosa said. A manhunt operation is underway to locate him.
CCTV footage from inside Mamac’s house captured a scream believed to be hers at around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, February 12. Her son confirmed she was alone at the time. The driver was seen leaving the compound shortly before the scream and returning a few minutes later. The victim’s white SUV was then seen driving by, followed by the scream. At approximately 8:30 p.m., the SUV was seen leaving the compound. The vehicle was found abandoned at the Magalang municipal plaza on Saturday afternoon.
Police discovered traces of blood at Mamac’s house on the walls, wheelbarrow, washing machine, and faucet. Forensic examination results are pending.
Pampanga 1st District Rep. Carmelo Lazatin Jr. has condemned the killing and offered a P200,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrator.
