IN light of Ako, Bicol Representative Rodel Batocabe’s murder this week, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the increase of the reward from P30 million to P50 million for any information.
“The reward is at this time P30 million. I’m raising the ante. I’m putting it at plus P20 to P50,” Duterte said during a chance interview on Wednesday, December 26 with reporters as he visited the wake of the late congressman in Albay.
As the search for the killer commences, Daraga Mayor Carlwyn Baldo has denied the claims that he is somehow involved in Batocabe’s killing.
The mayor recognized that the incident occurred under his jurisdiction; however, he decried any speculations that he has a hand in the said killing.
“These reports are dragging my name down. I accept (the blame), being the mayor of Daraga where this sad incident happened. What I cannot take are insinuations that I am behind this crime. People who know the background of our family (are aware) that we do not resort to violence to resolve issues,” Baldo said as reported by The Philippine Star.
The strong-mouthed leader emphasized that he would not let political terrorism, oppression and intimidation to reign as he threw shade to those “candidates who are prone to just kill their political opponents, precisely to win.”
“If you are listening now, if it was not you, just ignore it. But if you are the one who did it, killed your opponent, p***** i** mo pupuntahan kita dito. I will personally confront you,” the president warned.
“Pupuntahan kita, I will personally confront you. If I’m not satisfied, sasampalin kita. ‘Pag may ebidensiya, kakaladkarin kita (I’ll go to you, I will personally confront you. If I’m not satisfied, I’ll slap you. If there’s evidence, I’ll drag you),” he added.
He also addressed those politicians who plan to use force to eliminate their competition. He warned them not to push through with such plans as it would intensify political rivalries, especially in provinces.
“Especially those who become rich when they are in the position. They are there not really to protect or to serve their constituents but their personal interest and their desire to win by hook or by crook. The killing could be a remedy for them to get rid of their opponent,” the president said.
Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo on Thursday announced that the president recommended that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) place the town of Daraga in Albay under its control.
“The president vowed that he will not allow political terrorism, oppression, and intimidation. The President also reiterated the Alunan doctrine that no candidate should move around with bodyguards with long firearms unless a permit is granted by the Comelec,” Panelo said.
The Comelec promised to review the recommendation since it is supported by the local officials.
Comelec Spokesperson James Jimenez said that the Philippine National Police (PNP) agreed to the decision.
“Under the law, if the municipality is riddled with intense political rivalry, this can be placed under Comelec law,” Jimenez said.
