TACLOBAN CITY – The shooting of mayoral candidate Kerwin Espinosa is alarming yet does not define the peace of Leyte province, according to authorities.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is working diligently to reassure the public that the situation remains stable despite the recent violence.
Col. Dionisio Apas Jr., Leyte police provincial director, stated that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) has determined that the municipality of Albuera does not necessitate an elevated designation as an election area of concern.
This decision speaks volumes about the overall security situation in the province.
"The office remains steadfast in uncovering the truth, ensuring justice, and preserving peace and order," Apas declared in a press briefing late Tuesday.
His words serve as a commitment to the citizens of Leyte.
The data speaks for itself?
Apas highlighted a significant decrease in violent incidents, noting a shift from 25 shooting incidents in the first quarter of 2024 to just 12 this year. This 52 percent decrease is reassuring news for those concerned about safety during the election season.
“The notable decline in shooting incidents is a positive marker for the province,” Apas explained.
“We remain vigilant but optimistic.”
The investigation into the recent attack on Espinosa is thorough and ongoing.
Apas emphasized that this incident appears to be isolated and unlikely to disrupt the election activities of local candidates.
“Albuera is still peaceful. You will notice that Espinosa and other candidates have been campaigning after the shooting incident,” Apas stated, highlighting the resilience of the local political environment.
Espinosa himself was wounded in a shooting incident on April 10 during a campaign event in Tinag-an village.
The shooting raises concerns, but the quick apprehension of seven police officers in civilian clothing adds a layer of intrigue to the case.
These officers have been arrested in connection with holding illegal firearms amid the ongoing election gun ban.
Authorities are evidently confronting this issue head-on.
According to Apas, of the 14 firearms turned over by the arrested officers, only five were officially issued, while one belonged to a civilian, and eight were classified as loose firearms.
This raises questions about the accountability and professionalism within the force.
While Espinosa faces stiff competition from incumbent Mayor Sixto Dela Victoria and Vince Rama, his resilience in continuing his campaign underscores a determination not just to win an election, but to represent the people of Leyte in a time of potential unrest.
The PNP assures the public that while investigations are crucial, there is no immediate cause for alarm.
Authorities are committed to preventing similar violent incidents and maintaining peace during the campaign period and beyond.
In a broader context, incidents like the one faced by Espinosa prompt discussions about election-related violence in the Philippines.
While the PNP claims a reduced rate in shooting incidents, the presence of firearms and violent encounters cannot be dismissed lightly.
As the election draws near, the hope is for a peaceful and orderly campaign across all municipalities.
Voter safety shouldn’t be negotiable.
The commitment of law enforcement and local leaders will ultimately determine whether peace prevails or panic ensues as the ballots are prepared.
The people of Leyte deserve an election experience marked not by violence but by democratic participation that fosters community growth and stability.
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