ILOILO – Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. joined the calls for justice for slain Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo.
“I condemn in the strongest possible terms the murder of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and eight other innocent individuals. Political assassinations have no place in a civilized society where we value human life and protect human rights,” read part of Defensor’s statement.
He said the culprits must answer for their crimes and police investigations must not leave any stone unturned.
“I condole with the bereaved families of Governor Degamo and the other victims of this brutal act, and I pray that they get the justice they rightfully deserve,” said Defensor.
On Tuesday, March 7, Defensor was in Camp Crame for the meeting of the Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines with Philippine National Police (PNP) chief, General Rodolfo Azurin Jr.
The governor also requested newly-appointed Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) director, Police Colonel Ronaldo Palomo, to brief provincial officials and municipal mayors on the peace and order situation and discuss security measures.
“We are strengthening our coordination with the PNP so similar acts of violence will never happen,” said Defensor.
Degamo was strafed inside his residential compound in Barangay San Isidro, Pamplona town on March 4.
The eight other fatalities were Barangay Captain Florenda Quinikito, kagawad Jose Marie Ramirez, Jomar Canseco, Jerome Maquiling, Crispin Vallega, Michael Fabugais, Jessie Bot-ay, and Joseph Retada.
Five suspects, meanwhile, were arrested, two of whom were placed under the Witness Protection Program by the Department of Justice.
Police Lieutenant Colonel Gerard Ace Pelare, spokesperson of the Special Investigation Task Group Degamo, said the two suspects revealed vital information that could solve the crime./PN
