BY GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Department of Education has condemned the senseless killing of a teacher and her husband on June 17 in Sagay City, Negros Occidental, and called on authorities for a speedy investigation of the shooting incident.
Melanie Desamparado, 44, a teacher of Molocaboc Integrated School, and her husband, Emerlito, 46, were waylaid and shot by a still unidentified gunman, at the Molocaboc Wharf in Sagay City, the police said. Both succumbed to multiple gunshot wounds and died on the spot. An empty shell of a .45 caliber pistol was recovered by police probers at the crime scene.
Arlene Bermejo, assistant schools division superintendent, in a statement issued by the DepEd Division of Sagay City, said they condemned the senseless and unforgivable act of violence that claimed the lives of the Desamparado couple.
“While we wait for the speedy investigation of this case, we enjoin everyone to offer their sincerest words of encouragement, fervent prayers for comfort and healing, and give any assistance to the family as they go through these difficult times,” Bermejo said.
She also called for continuing prayers, and to constantly look after the welfare of learners, teachers, and every DepEd personnel.
P/Lt. Abundio Diaz, Sagay City deputy police chief, said they already have a person of interest in the killing of the couple, but did not elaborate, pending further investigation.
Diaz also said they are securing the testimony of an eyewitness, and are preparing the filing of two counts of murder against the gunman. He said the motive for the shooting is still being determined.*
