Authorities in Tayabas City, Quezon, are delving into potential motives of personal grudges and financial disputes in the tragic killing of a mother and daughter, according to police statements on Tuesday.
The victims, identified as Lorry Litada, 54, and her daughter Mai Motegi, 26, were found buried near a residence in a Tayabas subdivision weeks after their disappearance on February 21. The two had arrived from Japan on February 20 and were staying at Litada’s sister’s house, who is now considered a suspect in their deaths.
Reports suggest the victims possessed P5 million cash intended for a property transaction in Quezon, which is now missing.
PCol. Ledon Monte, director of Quezon provincial police, revealed that Litada and her sister had a history of disagreements. “Based on witness accounts, there seemed to be longstanding issues and mistreatment within the family,” Monte stated.
Investigations also unveiled over half a million pesos cash hidden in a room during a recent police operation. “We found 136,000 yen and 30,000 pesos cash, totaling over half a million pesos,” Monte disclosed.
Furthermore, it was revealed that the Japanese embassy had raised concerns about the whereabouts of the mother and daughter upon learning of their disappearance. “They were expected to return by February 22 and 25 respectively. However, there were no records of their return,” Monte added.
Authorities claim to have identified all suspects involved in the killings, with investigations ongoing.
