The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) 7 is actively pursuing its investigation into a high-profile hit-and-run case from February 2026, targeting suspect Sean Andrew Pajarillo. Authorities are gathering additional evidence and have issued numerous subpoenas as part of the ongoing probe.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The case stems from a tragic accident on February 8, 2026, which resulted in the death of businessman Kingston Ralph Cheng after he was struck by a speeding vehicle. The incident has drawn significant public attention, prompting a thorough investigation by the NBI 7.
Sobriety Assessment Challenges
During a news forum on Tuesday, March 17, NBI 7 Agent Maria Contessa Lastimoso revealed that investigators have not yet determined whether Pajarillo was intoxicated while driving. This uncertainty arises from a lack of confirmatory test results. No objective alcohol testing—such as breath analyzer or laboratory exams—was conducted initially.
A private hospital performed a Romberg Test, a type of sobriety assessment, but it was deemed inconclusive and not final. "Because this case has become high-profile, everyone is hesitant even to mark him as drunk, but we have CCTV footage," Lastimoso stated.
Evidence Collection and Subpoenas
Investigators have reviewed CCTV footage showing Pajarillo outside a beverage store before the incident, where he appeared unsteady while walking. To date, the NBI has subpoenaed at least 12 individuals in connection with the case, aiming to piece together the events leading to the fatal crash.
Delays in Testing Procedures
One major obstacle in the investigation has been a nearly 24-hour delay in conducting sobriety tests. Lastimoso explained that the absence of facilities for breath analyzers and laboratory exams limited authorities' ability to measure blood alcohol content accurately.
Records indicate that a request for drug and alcohol testing was made at a hospital in Mandaue City at 2:30 PM. By 8:00 PM, Pajarillo was transferred to Cebu City Medical Center due to inadequate equipment at the first hospital. This delay means a significant amount of time passed between the alleged drinking and the testing, which could affect the reliability of the results.
Suspect's Background Check
On another front, NBI 7 Executive Officer for Administration Gregorio Algoso Jr. noted that Pajarillo has no record in their agency's database. Algoso clarified that the NBI database only includes cases that have been filed with prosecutors and courts, excluding incidents settled or resolved before formal charges. This does not imply an absence of police or blotter entries, as those are managed separately.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities emphasizing the need for meticulous evidence collection to ensure justice in this high-stakes case.
