Fourth suspect in marine biologist Kent Carpenter's killing surrenders

A fourth suspect in the killing of American marine biologist Kent Carpenter has surrendered to the police. In a Balitanghali report on Friday, the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office said the suspect served as the lookout during the crime. The latest suspect, who was not included in the initial list of four alleged perpetrators, already underwent inquest proceedings. Police are currently in custody of the four suspects, while another one remains at large. Authorities are currently searching for an alias "Eden," according to a report from Super Radyo dzBB. GMA News is currently attempting to get statements from the apprehended individuals. Carpenter was killed inside his home in Sibulan, Negros Oriental on July 12. He was watching television when gunmen allegedly broke into his home and shot him in the head. His live-in partner was allegedly sexually assaulted by the assailants. While authorities initially considered the partner as a person of interest, the police changed her status to complainant-witness. Renowned marine biologist Carpenter was a renowned marine biologist that has spent decades studying Philippine biodiversity. Some of his most significant contributions included hailing the Verde Island Passage in Luzon as the "Center of the Center" of marine shore-fish biodiversity. This title has allowed conservationists to demonstrate how important the pathway is. Carpenter also pushed for the Verde Island Passage to be declared as a National Protected Area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This helped draw global attention to the Verde Island Passage, highlighting the rich marine life that lived in the area. The Department of Environment and Natural Resources also cited Carpenter’s work in the preservation efforts of the Tubbataha Reefs. Arbitral ruling Carpenter was also an expert witness during the 2016 South China Sea arbitral ruling, which cemented Manila’s claim over the West Philippine Sea. The marine biologist delivered oral testimonies during the international tribunal’s hearing in 2016. He also helped the Philippines’ case by providing expert evidence of China’s destructive behavior in the disputed waters. Carpenter's slay has prompted a public outcry as well as tributes from various environmental groups and academic institutions. Silliman University, where Carpenter was a research associate, mourned his death, saying that his passing was a tremendous loss to the community. "Beyond his remarkable scholarly achievements, Dr. Carpenter was a generous mentor, collaborator, and friend to the Silliman community. He freely shared his knowledge, encouraged young scientists, and helped cultivate a culture of scientific excellence, international collaboration, and environmental stewardship that continues to shape the University’s marine research programs," Silliman University said. Environmental group Sentro para sa Ikauunlad ng Katutubong Agham at Teknolohiya (SIKAT) called Carpenter a "champion of the oceans." "His science gave local communities, conservationists, and policymakers the empirical foundation needed to defend, manage, and cherish our municipal waters and coastal resources," SIKAT said in a statement. — VDV, GMA News