TACLOBAN CITY — Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa voluntarily surrendered to the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 14 in Cebu City on Thursday, February 5, following the issuance of a warrant of arrest for murder.
Espinosa said in a video message that he chose to surrender instead of waiting for authorities to serve the warrant, adding that he was seeking prayers for his safety. The arrest order was issued on February 4 by Judge Merlo Pasco Bagano, with no bail recommended, against Espinosa and three co-accused.
A close aide said the mayor was not fully aware of the details of the charge, which Espinosa earlier described as politically motivated.
Following his surrender, Vice Mayor Mariel Espinosa Marinay assumed the post of acting mayor and assured residents that local government operations will continue uninterrupted.
She said the delivery of basic services would not be affected and vowed to carry on the programs of the mayor while upholding truth and public service.
(JOEY A. GABIETA/ROEL T. AMAZONA)
