Task force handles case of 2 Aussies, companion killed in Tagaytay

MANILA: The Philippines Embassy in Australia on Saturday officially identified its two nationals found dead in a Tagaytay City luxury hotel on July 10. The victims were partners David James Fisk and Lucita Barquin-Cortez, found dead with Filipino national Mary Jane Cortez. Australian news sites said Fisk, 57, and Filipino-Australian Cortez, 55, got engaged in December. Cortez, 30, is the Filipino-Australian's daughter-in-law. 'We wish to extend our deepest condolences and most heartfelt sympathies to the family and loved ones of David and Lucita on their loss. We offer our thoughts and prayers for solace and comfort during this difficult time,' the embassy said. 'The Philippine government condemns in the strongest terms the cowardly and senseless act that took the couple from their loved ones,' it added. The victims were discovered in their hotel room with their hands and feet bound, and their mouths taped shut. The Police Regional Office in Calabarzon (PRO-4A) has already activated 'Special Investigat ion Task Group David Fisk" to look into their deaths. PRO-4A Regional Director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas said the task group is doubling efforts to swiftly identify and apprehend the suspect -- or suspects -- responsible for the crime. Source: Philippines News Agency