Army Bars Brig. Gen. Jesus Durante from Major Responsibility
The Philippine Army has officially barred Brigadier General Jesus Durante III from holding any military post involving major responsibility. This restriction follows his reprimand by a special general court martial linked to the 2022 killing of a Davao City businesswoman-model. The keyphrase “barred from major responsibility” appears early to emphasize the gravity of the situation.
Durante, who once led the Army’s 1001st Infantry Brigade in Davao de Oro, remains under Army custody at Fort Bonifacio headquarters in Taguig City. The case still awaits final resolution by the Army’s convening authority. According to the Army spokesperson, Col. Louie Dema-ala, “Since he is reprimanded, he is not allowed to be designated to a position of major responsibility. It is up to the higher headquarters now what his disposition will be once the decision of the special general court-martial is finalized.”
Floating Status While Awaiting Final Decision
Currently, Durante is on what the Army describes as a “floating status.” This means he holds no specific post or unit assignment but remains an official part of the military. The commanding general, Lt. Gen. Roy Galido, along with higher headquarters, will decide his fate once the court martial’s decision is finalized.
Details of the Court Martial Verdict
The special general court martial found Durante and three of his subordinates guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violating Article of War 97, which pertains to conduct prejudicial to good order and military discipline. The charges are connected to the murder of Yvonnete Chua Plaza, a businesswoman-model, who was killed by motorcycle-riding gunmen outside her Davao City home in December 2022.
Investigators from the Philippine National Police suggested a possible intimate relationship between Durante and Plaza, with jealousy as a potential motive. However, Durante denied these claims, insisting they were only friends.
His subordinates, Sergeant Delfin Sialsa and Corporal Adrian Cachero, received prison sentences ranging from 10 to 12 years, while Private First Class Rolly Cabal was sentenced to four to six years. All three were dishonorably discharged from military service.
Acquittals and Cleared Officers
Meanwhile, Durante and his former deputy, Col. Michael Licyayo, were acquitted of charges under Article of War 96, which involves conduct unbecoming an officer, due to insufficient evidence. Additionally, two other former subordinates, Master Sergeant Ariel Ballesteros and Staff Sergeant Gilbert Plaza, were cleared of violating Article of War 97.
Background and Career
Durante’s military career includes a notable appointment as head of the Presidential Security Group during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Despite his rise, this recent court martial reprimand puts a significant dent in his service record.
For more news and updates on the Philippine Army and military affairs, visit Filipinokami.com.