ILOILO City – Key political leaders of this city condemned the killing of former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo on Saturday, March 4.
“This act of sheer brutality has no place in a civilized society,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas.
The governor was inside his residence hosting beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) when the perpetrators disguised as uniformed personnel entered and peppered them with bullets, killing him and eight others.
Treñas called on the Department of Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police (PNP) to bring the criminals to justice.
Treñas further called on the PNP to be on full alert as killings have been perpetrated around the country against local chief executives (LCEs).
“If we cannot keep our localities safe for the LCEs, how can we expect the ordinary individuals to feel safe? Let us all be vigilant,” said Treñas.
Iloilo City’s Rep. Julienne “Jam” Baronda also condemned the brazen slaying of Degamo whom she described as a good friend.
She urged the PNP to leave no stone unturned in making the perpetrators face the full force of the law.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the people of Negros Oriental, whom Gov. Degamo served well, and Mayor Janice Degamo and their family,” Baronda added.
LCP statement
In its official statement, the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) headed by its national president, Cebu City’s Mayor Michael L. Rama, condemned the killing of Degamo. They hope the malefactors are swiftly brought to justice as a stark warning to others who intend to commit similar deplorable acts.
The LCP also emphasized the increasing acts of violence against those in public service (or chief executives) have further strengthened their resolve to call for a collaborative effort from all levels of government to address the root cause of this criminality, and to build inclusive communities that share the same vision of a peaceful and safe society.
“On behalf of the LCP, our deepest condolences to the families of those whose lives were so unjustly cut short, and to the people of Negros Oriental. Governor Degamo was taken too soon, but he leaves us with a legacy that will continue to be an inspiration for those who answer the call for public service,” the statement further read./PN
