A murder case involving a Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) official in Northern Samar has brought another wave of shock in an agency already plagued with controversies.
The victim, identified as 25-year-old Karen del Valle, was shot dead by a member of the Philippine Army in Barangay Dalakit, Catarman, Northern Samar last March 2.
Del Valle was an engineer of the DPWH Northern Samar first district engineering office, while the suspect, identified as Sgt. Jerome Lluz Tejero, was assigned to the 8ID headquarters in Maulong, Catbalogan City, Samar.
The victim's brother was also wounded in the incident, according to authorities.
Both the suspect and the victim are residents of Barangay Airport in Catarman town.
Police have yet to issue a statement on the possible motive for the killing, although it was noted that Tejero was the victim's live-in partner.
In a statement, Tejero's division condemned the act and vowed to coordinate with law enforcement agencies to ensure his swift apprehension.
“Such actions are a direct affront to the core values of honor, service and patriotism that every soldier is sworn to uphold. The Command is fully cooperating with the Philippine National Police in the conduct of the investigation and in the immediate apprehension of the suspect,” the 8ID stated.
Catarman Mayor Dianne Rosales also described the incident as tragic and disturbing, noting that it occurred near a school.
“It is especially heartbreaking that this occurred on the day we opened our Women’s Month celebration —a time meant to honor the strength and dignity of women in our community. I have directed the authorities in Catarman to act swiftly and ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Rosales said.
Rosales also appealed to the public to stop sharing and posting photos and videos of the incident out of respect for the victim and her family.
(With report from PNA)
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