On the shooting of Ilocos Norte newly re-elected officials

We sincerely sympathize and express our condolences to the family of re-elected Mayor Philip Velasco and Councilor Marcelo Andaya of Baccara, Ilocos Norte.

We call on the authorities in Ilocos Norte to deliver justice to their families and supporters. This crime should not go unpunished.

Poll violence apparently is not yet over. With the canvassing of votes still unfinished, we remain concerned and ask for vigilance from the public, from our police authorities to prevent lawlessness and election violence to continue unabated.

We are dismayed and concerned that lawlessness might prevail especially in areas where the canvassing remains unfinished or in areas where there are failure of elections.