MANILA, Philippines – No passport and biometrics records under the name “Edgar Matobato” has been found and any application under a new or assumed identity will be flagged by the system, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said in a statement.
“A Philippine passport will not be issued, if there is already an existing record and biometrics in the database,” said the DFA.
According to a The New York Times article published on January 5, 2025, self-confessed hitman of the Davao Death Squad Edgar Matobato, together with his common-law wife and two stepchildren, already left the country, acquired a new identity and job.
The article also showed photos of Matobato and his common-law wife walking through an airport and was able to board a plane with a flight to his new “undisclosed” destination.
According to the DFA, fraudulent application for passport is a serious offense punishable under the Passport Law.
“The DFA will continue to investigate the matter, and if warranted, refer the matter to law enforcement agencies and relevant authorities for further investigation.
Courtesy of Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)
Meanwhile, Malacañang has no comment when asked about the article and asserted that it has no connection with the self-confessed hitman.
“Wala kaming masabi d’yan dahil we have no connection with Mr. Matobato. Whatever his purpose in going out, we cannot control that,” Executive Secretary Bersamin told the Malacañang Press Corps.
Bersamin clarified that Malacañang has no control of Matobato if he intends to testify against the drug war of Former President Rodrigo Duterte.
“Hindi namin siya ini-encourage, hindi rin dini-discourage,” he said.
