President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos condemned the attempted murder of a contractor in Negros Oriental by motorcycle-riding assailants, stressing that the incident must be thoroughly investigated as it coincides with the government’s ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in flood control projects.
“It is only right that this case be investigated so we can determine the root cause. The President condemns these acts of violence,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro said in a press briefing.
The Palace assured the public that the administration will not allow intimidation or harassment of individuals linked to the investigation.
“The President’s directive is clear, those who must be charged should be charged, and those who must be held accountable should be held accountable,” Castro said.
“He has also ordered the Philippine National Police to take this seriously to prevent crimes related to the investigation,” she added.
Commissioned as an engineer and contractor, the victim, identified as Angelito Uy Mendoza, was on his way to a quarry site in Brgy. San Francisco, when gunmen aboard a black Honda XRM motorcycle opened fire on Wednesday morning. Mendoza sustained four gunshot wounds, one in the shoulder, two in the back, and another in the thigh.
Local authorities have named persons of interest in the case, though they have yet to disclose identities or ascertain a motive. Early investigation suggests a possible land dispute tied to quarry operations may have played a role.
