The Philippine National Police and Army assured the public that the shooting incident in Brgy. Mambulac, Silay City, Negros Occidental, that left two dead and seven injured on Monday was under control and does not reflect the overall security situation in Northern Negros.
The Philippine National Police-Negros Island Region and the 79th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army issued the assurances in separate statements.
PRO-NIR said in a statement that they already implemented measures to ensure public safety and law enforcement continuity.
Police Regional Director BGen. Arnold Thomas Ibay said that the situation is under control and all necessary actions are being done to bring the perpetrators to justice and maintain peace in the community.
“We assure the people of Silay and the entire region that security forces are fully mobilized to protect our communities, especially during this critical election period,” Ibay said.
Meanwhile, Lt,Col. Arnel Calaoagan, 79IB Commander, also assured that the incident is an isolated case and does not reflect the overall security situation in Northern Negros.
“Our troops remain on full alert and continue to work closely with the Philippine National Police, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) and other stakeholders to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process”, Calaoagan said.
The Army also urged the candidates, supporters and voters to remain calm but vigilant, cooperate with security protocols, and report any suspicious activity to authorities.
“We remain committed to upholding the democratic rights of the people and ensuring that every citizen can vote freely and safely”, he added.*