The Criminal Court has found Marvin Vagas guilty of the murder of his wife, former Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) nurse Mary Grace.
While the court delivered a guilty verdict on Sunday, sentencing has been deferred until next month at the request of the defence. The court has scheduled the sentencing hearing for July 1.
Marvin was convicted of intentionally causing the death of Mary Grace, whose death in October 2021 initially appeared to be the result of choking. However, police later launched an extensive investigation after identifying suspicious circumstances surrounding the case.
The case also involves Halimath Lamha, who is accused of participating in the murder and unlawfully obtaining medication from IGMH without authorization. Prosecutors allege the medication was used as part of the events leading to Mary Grace’s death.
Both Marvin and Lamha have denied the charges and presented defence witnesses during the trial.
At the time of the incident, Marvin, Lamha and Mary Grace were all employed as nurses at IGMH. According to the prosecution’s case, Marvin and Lamha, who worked together in the hospital’s casualty department, were involved in a secret relationship.
Investigators allege that the relationship played a role in the events surrounding Mary Grace’s death. Divorce is generally not permitted under Philippine law, a factor that was highlighted during proceedings.
Mary Grace was reported dead on October 19, 2021. Marvin was arrested eight days later on October 27, while Lamha was taken into custody on December 16 following further investigation.
The court’s sentencing decision is expected to be delivered next month.
