Pasay city: The three suspects in the killing of former Abuyog, Leyte Vice Mayor James Bohol and his son, Carlou James Bohol surrendered Tuesday night in Pasay City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said. In a press briefing held at Camp Crame on Wednesday, PNP Anti-Kidnapping Group (AKG) director Brig. Gen. Edwin Balles said the three surrendered and admitted committing the crimes.
According to Philippines News Agency, the suspects were motivated by debt, as one of the perpetrators, known as "Daboy," owed Bohol an unspecified amount of money. Balles explained that the suspects decided to surrender after news reports confirmed the discovery of the victims' bodies. The bodies were found at a ravine in Barangay Imelda, Silago, Southern Leyte on June 30, a few days after the victims were reported missing on June 27.
Balles detailed that the crime was brutal, with the suspects killing Bohol and his son by repeatedly hitting them on the head with a dumbbell and stabbing them multiple times with a bladed weapon. The suspects are currently in the custody of the AKG and will be transferred to the Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas (PRO-8) for further investigation and legal action.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. praised the PNP personnel involved in the operation for their efforts. He extended condolences to the family of the victims and assured them of justice. Nartatez emphasized the PNP's commitment to identifying and arresting all responsible parties.
Bohol, who previously served as a municipal councilor and vice mayor of Abuyog from 2022 until his unsuccessful reelection bid in 2025, and his son were engaged in private business at the time of their death.
In a separate case, Nartatez also highlighted the conviction of seven individuals involved in a kidnap-for-ransom case involving a 78-year-old businesswoman. This case marked the first high-profile kidnap-for-ransom solved under Nartatez's leadership. The victim was rescued on Sept. 11, 2025, after being taken by armed men and a ransom demand of PHP150 million was made. Seven suspects received reclusion perpetua sentences, while four others were acquitted.
Source: Philippines News Agency
