DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, March 8 (PIA) -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. assured Negrenses that justice will be served following the murder of Gov. Roel Degamo and eight other victims who were massacred last weekend.
Marcos flew to Dumaguete City last night to pay his respects to the late Gov. Degamo at his residence and personally convey his condolences to the family.
"Sinabi ko sa kanila (families of the victims), makakaasa sila na magkakaroon ng hustisya sa inyong probinsiya (I told them justice will be served in your province)," he added.
He was met by Degamo’s widow, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, together with their supporters and mourners.
The President also mingled with the families of other victims of the massacre, who were also at Degamo's house and offered his sympathies.
"I came here para makiramay sa family ni Gov. Roel at nagtatanong kami kung ano pa ang kailangan gawin para matulungan yung mga biktima pati yung mga nasa ospital ngayon (I came here to condole with the family of Gov. Roel. I asked about the other victims especially those who are still in the hospital and inquired what assistance do they need so that we can help them)," said Pres. Marcos in a short media interaction outside.
The President was accompanied by Defense Sec. Carlito Galvez, Interior and Local Government Sec. Benhur Abalos, Presidential Communications Office Sec. Chelloy Garafil, Justice Sec. Jesus Crispin Remulla, and Special Assistant to the President Anton Lagdameo, Jr.
Degamo died on Saturday, March 4, 2023 at 11:41 a.m., after sustaining fatal gunshot wounds in a massive shooting incident in his home, that left other eight people dead and 13 others seriously injured.
The police and military immediately launched a hot pursuit operation and in the course of three days, arrested four suspects and killed one during an encounter.
Charges of multiple murder, multiple frustrated murder, and illegal possession of firearms were filed against the suspects.
Authorities are still conducting hot pursuit operations to arrest the remaining suspects.
Degamo's mortal remains will be brought to the Capitol for public viewing on March 9 until March 12 for those who want to bid their last farewell to the late governor. The body will then be transferred to his hometown in Bonawon, Siaton for another public viewing.
Internment is set on March 16. (RAL/PIA7 Negros Oriental)
