Senators hit slay of Duterte party-mate

MANILA – Senators condemned the killing of former La Union representative Eufranio Eriguel, who was shot Saturday evening in Barangay Capas, Agoo town.

Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III directed the Philippine National Police to promptly investigate the death of Eriguel, a member of the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino – Lakas ng Bayan, political party of President Rodrigo Duterte.

“The PNP must forcefully, quickly and effectively respond to this outrage,” Pimentel said.

Two of Eriguel’s bodyguards were also reportedly killed.

“What we need is a professional and credible police force that can deter criminals and effectively deal with those who violate the law,” said Pimentel.

“I am encouraged by PNP Chief Oscar Albayalde’s efforts to discipline the police force but we will see if his measures would translate to increased effectiveness of the PNP in catching the killers,” he added.

Sen. Sherwin Gatchalian hoped for speedy justice.

“As his colleague in the 16th Congress and former party-mate under the Nationalist People’s Coalition, I can attest that Franny was a well-natured man and an able public servant,” said Gatchalian.

Malacañang also strongly denounced the killing.

“Investigators are now gathering evidence as we vow to bring justice to the slain congressman and his bereaved family,” Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said. “Political violence has no place in society.”

In 2016 Eriguel survived a bomb attack that killed two of his staffer and injured several others./PN