The Philippine National Police (PNP) Police Regional Office in Cagayan Valley (PRO-2) immediately launched a hot pursuit operation after the brutal shooting and killing of Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma.
According to PRO-2 Regional Director, BGen. Antonio Marallag Jr., high-risk checkpoints are currently being placed in neighboring towns to prevent the possible escape of the suspects.
Marallag strongly condemned the heinous crime and directed his personnel to immediately resolve the case.
“We strongly condemn this violence, especially at a time when we are preparing for the peaceful 2025 elections,” he said.
“We will not stop until we provide justice to the victims. We call on the public to cooperate with the investigation by sharing any information that may help in the case,” Marallag added.
Based on initial reports, Ruma was shot at around 9:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 23, inside the gymnasium in Barangay Iluru while he was in the middle of his campaign.
It was learned that apart from the mayor, two other individuals were involved in the incident.