Palace denounces ‘senseless killing’ of Ako Bicol congressman

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang condemned Saturday the killing of Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe in Albay.

“We denounce the senseless killing of Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe in Albay this (Saturday) afternoon,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a statement.

“Proper authorities are now investigating this brazen murder as we vow to leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators of this felonious act to justice,” he added. 

“The Palace,” he said, “likewise expresses its deep condolences to his bereaved family, his loved ones, as well as his friends and colleagues in Congress during this moment of great grief.”

Batocabe, 52, was at a gift-giving event for senior citizens and persons with disabilities around 3 p.m. in Barangay Burgos in Daraga, Albay when he and his police escort were gunned down by still unknown assailants.

READ: Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe, police escort killed in Albay

The lawmaker and his aide were taken to a private hospital in Legazpi City but we declared dead on arrival.  /kga