House leaders meet PNP, DILG over attacks vs. local execs

Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez led House leaders in a meeting with Philippine National Police (PNP) and Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) officials to address the "alarming" series of armed attacks against elected local officials.

According to Chino Gaston's report on "24 Oras," the House leader urged the PNP to intensify the campaign of law enforcement authorities against crime to ensure the public's safety.

"We should show that the LGU and the PNP, that we are confident of a speedy resolution. We want this to be clear. We want the message na hindi tayo pabaya, hindi tayo, what are we doing ‘di ba?" Romualdez said.

"Let us ensure that the law is carried out strictly, without fear or favor," he said.

The PNP said the suspects have been identified on the attack against Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong Jr.

As for the killing of Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda, the police said it now has a person of interest. The closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage is also being reviewed.

Meanwhile, the CCTV footage of Mayor Oto Montawal of Datu Montawal in Maguindanao is also being investigated.

“Nabanggit po niya Sir na medyo nakaka-alarma considering in a span of 1 week, ay tatlong elected officials po sa iba-ibang lugar nangyari itong shooting incidents subalit naiparating naman po ng ating chief PNP ang overall picture ng peace and order, at nakita po niya base po sa mga statistics na mababa pa rin po yung ating mga insidente. Subalit ang sabi po ng ating chief PNP, hindi ibig sabihin nito na ipagwawalang bahala natin itong tatlong insidente,” sad PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo said.

As part of the anti-illegal firearms campaign, Romualdez said he sought a stricter licensing system for firearms by requiring additional gun safety training and stringent background checks on anyone purchasing a firearm.

He also proposed strengthening the government's national firearms database to enable authorities to effectively track the movement and ownership of firearms in the country.

"We are here to address all possible threats to public order and safety. We agreed to work together to reduce all forms of criminality and violence," he said. 

"These proposals are meant to ensure a safer environment for everyone. This is our commitment to protect the citizens and promote public safety," Romualdez added.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News