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Mother Testifies in Manila Trial Over Diego Bello’s Killing as Family Names Alleged Threat

Prosecutors rely on an NBI report that contradicts the police account.

Overview

  • The parents and brother attended the hearing in Manila, where Pilar Lafuente testified via a sworn affidavit and faced limited defence questions.
  • The family says the person who issued prior death threats was Governor Miguel Villafuerte, a name raised during proceedings.
  • The judge signaled an intention to move the case faster after repeated delays since the oral trial began in 2023.
  • Official findings say there was no shootout, alleging planted gun and drugs, with forensic analysis indicating Bello was shot while on the ground.
  • Courts denied bail to the three police defendants in 2025, and the family has pursued support through meetings with Spanish and EU officials and the NBI.