By Alec Go
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) condemned the fatal shooting incident in Pikit, Cotabato on Feb. 14 that killed and injured high school students in the town.
In a statement, DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos said they are coordinating with National Security Adviser Eduardo M. Año and Defense officer-in-charge Carlito Galvez Jr. in identifying and apprehending the suspects.
“Hindi tayo titigil hanggang hindi nagkakaroon ng hustisya ang mga naging biktima at kanilang mga pamilya. Walang puwang ang mga mamamatay-tao sa administrasyon ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lalo na ang kumikitil ng buhay ng mga bata,” he said.
“Our resolve on these heinous crimes will not dwindle as we continue to fulfill our mandate to protect the Filipinos,” he added.
Abalos said Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. has been instructed to lead the investigation.
The DILG has extended its sympathies to the victims, and gave an assurance to solve the case and strengthen security in Mindanao.
The Pikit Municipal Police Station also condemned the incident in a post shared on social media. The station said it continues to provide security to students and teachers in the area.
Pikit Mayor Sumulong Sultan issued Executive Order No. 3 on Tuesday to suspend classes in all levels and schools in the municipality from Feb. 15 to 17 “due to security reasons.”
The municipal government called on the public to coordinate with authorities following the incident.
