Forensic experts conduct 2nd autopsy on Leviste aide

The body of Rafael de las Alas, the slain aide of former Batangas Gov. Jose Antonio Leviste, was brought to the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Medicine campus in Manila for a second autopsy. Radio station dzBB reported that the body was brought to the UP campus from the Funeraria Paz parlor Wednesday afternoon, where forensic pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun led the autopsy. Lawyer Joven Lorenzo, who represents the De las Alas' family, was also present at the autopsy, which was expected to end 3 p.m. Fortun had earlier undertaken forensic examinations on "Nicole," the 23-year-old victim in the celebrated Subic rape case. Earlier, Lorenzo told dzBB radio an initial autopsy report showed De las Alas sustained a gunshot wound at the back of the head indicating treachery, which could upgrade the homicide charges against Leviste to murder. Leviste, who surrenderd to Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay after the shooting incident last Jan. 12, claimed he shot De las Alas in self-defense. - GMANews.TV