MANILA — DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) test results for the Catherine Camilon case are expected to be released next week, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

The tests, conducted on hair and blood samples found in an abandoned vehicle linked to the missing beauty queen, as well as samples from her family, will provide crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.

Police Colonel Jean Fajardo, the PNP spokesperson, stated that the Forensic Group anticipates releasing the results next week.

Police Major Rodrigo Sotero Jr., the PNP Forensic Group public information officer, mentioned that the examination is still in progress, and although a definite date is yet to be confirmed, it may be available next week.

The potential match between the samples from the abandoned vehicle and Camilon’s family is seen as pivotal in strengthening the case against the current suspects.

The vehicle, found in Barangay Dumuclay, Batangas City, was subjected to forensic tests at the Batangas Provincial Police Office.

Witnesses have come forward claiming to have seen Camilon, with one stating she was bloodied, being transferred from her car to another vehicle on October 12.

This information has led to the filing of kidnapping and serious illegal detention complaints against four suspects, including Police Major Allan de Castro, chief of police of Bauan, Batangas,  and Jeffrey Magpantay.

De Castro, who was reportedly the person Camilon was supposed to meet on the day of her disappearance, denies the allegation.

He has been temporarily relieved from his post pending the investigation results.

Two John Does are also among the identified suspects.

The reward for information on Camilon’s whereabouts currently stands at P250,000, contributed by Batangas Vice Governor Mark Leviste, the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission, and the business sector.

The investigation has revealed an alleged relationship between Camilon and a policeman, prompting the filing of complaints against the former owner of Camilon’s vehicle for carnapping and estafa.

The former owner is suspected to be part of a carnapping group.

Camilon’s sister, Chin-chin, sought help on social media in locating her, leading to her declaration as a missing person five days later. CCTV footage on October 12 shows Camilon’s vehicle passing through towns in Batangas, with indications that she was not alone.

Camilon represented Tuy, Batangas, in the Miss Grand Philippines 2023 pageant.

(JR AMIGO/ai/mnm)