Task force handles case of 2 Aussies, companion killed in Tagaytay

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

July 13, 2024, 3:51 pm

MANILAThe Philippine Embassy in Australia on Saturday officially identified the two Aussie nationals found dead in a Tagaytay City luxury hotel on July 10.

The victims were partners David James Fisk and Lucita Barquin-Cortez, found dead with Filipino national Mary Jane Cortez.

Australian news sites said Fisk, 57, and Filipino-Australian Cortez, 55, got engaged in December.

Cortez, 30, was the Filipino-Australian’s daughter-in-law.

“We wish to extend our deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathies to the family and loved ones of David and Lucita on their loss. We offer our thoughts and prayers for solace and comfort during this difficult time,” the embassy said.

“The Philippine government condemns in the strongest terms the cowardly and senseless act that took the couple from their loved ones. We stand in solidarity with the Australian government in our joint efforts to bring the perpetrator to justice,” it added.

The victims were discovered in their hotel room with their hands and feet bound, and their mouths taped shut.

The Police Regional Office in Calabarzon (PRO-4A) has already activated “Special Investigation Task Group David Fisk" to look into their deaths.

PRO-4A Regional Director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas said the task group is doubling efforts to swiftly identify and apprehend the suspect -- or suspects -- responsible for the crime. The security footage recorded just one person walking on the hallway around the time of the killing. (PNA)

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