A Bacolod councilor is calling for an investigation into the shooting of a local fisherman by alleged members of the Iloilo Bantay Dagat.
Councilor Jude Thaddeus Sayson said on Monday, August 4, that his office is gathering information to draft a Sangguniang Panlungsod resolution calling for the investigation.
They will wait for the SP to approve the resolution on Wednesday so they can start the investigation in coordination with the Iloilo LGU, he said.
Sayson believes an investigation is crucial to prevent similar incidents.
He said even if the fisherman had encroached on their waters, he should have been arrested, not shot.
If Iloilo City’s Bantay Dagat is confirmed to be involved, Sayson plans to ask Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya to discuss the matter with the mayor of Iloilo City.
The victim, Reynaldo Manlangit, 52, a resident of Purok Kagaykay, Barangay 2 in Bacolod, was injured and hospitalized after being shot on Sunday afternoon.
The shooting reportedly occurred in the waters between Guimaras and Bacolod.
PMaj. Eugene Tolentino, Bacolod Police Station 2 chief, said they received the report from 911.
Initial reports indicate two boats were involved, and the Bantay Dagat tried to arrest the fishermen. The fishermen
fled and were then shot.
The police are still investigating whether Bantay Dagat personnel were responsible for the shooting.
Police Station 2 cops are coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group on the case.*