The government is determined to prosecute “without delay” Daraga, Albay Mayor Carlwyn Baldo and his cohorts for their alleged involvement in the murder of Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe last Dec. 22.
Presidential spokesperson Salvador Panelo lauded the police for the swift conclusion of the investigation on the killing of Batocabe, saying it was “a breakthrough in the pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.”
“Daraga, Albay Mayor Carlwyn Baldo, together with all others tagged as suspects of the aforesaid murder, will have their day in court where they can refute the charges hurled against them,” Panelo said.
“While they too are afforded the constitutional presumption of innocence and consequently will be accorded due process, the government shall nonetheless prosecute them for the heinous crime without delay,” he added.
Panelo said it was imperative to have mutual cooperation and support between the police and the local community in suppressing and solving crimes. “The early solution of the Batocabe murder is the result of this partnership – and credit should be given to them,” he said.
He also appealed to the public to remain vigilant and help thwart acts of lawlessness in their communities.
“We call on the citizens to be always on the alert and watchful on any activities and or acts committed by persons which have the appearance of unlawfulness or irregularity amounting to a crime – and report the same to the proper authorities,” he said. (Genalyn Kabiling)
