The remand of Marvin S. Y. Vargas, arrested in connection and charged with the murder of his wife, Mary Grace Pineda, has been extended by an additional 30 days.
The online trial of Mary’s murder case commenced at the Criminal Court today. Marvin requested to proceed with the assistance of his lawyer. However, the court was unable to contact Marvin’s lawyer and the hearing was cut short.
The prosecution then requested the court to extend Marvin’s remand as it expires today. Presiding Judge Hussain Faiz Rashad approved extending Marvin’s remand by an additional 30 days. However, Judge Faiz noted that the remand decision will be reviewed later on when Marvin’s lawyer is present.
Marvin and his lover Lamha are charged with premeditated murder, according to the PG Office. Marvin is accused of injuring Mary’s head and neck and strangling her to death, while Lamha is accused of conspiring with Marvin and aiding and abetting her murder. She is also accused of having unlawfully obtained controlled drugs. If convicted, Marvin faces a minimum of ten years in jail, while Lamha faces a minimum of six years.
