Nograles: Killers of Batocabe must not go ‘unpunished’

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles (File photo by LYN RILLON / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles demanded justice for the killing of Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe who was shot in Daraga, Albay on Saturday.

Nograles also joined government officials in mourning the “senseless death” of Batocabe, his former colleague at the House of Representatives.

“I join my former colleagues in the House of Representatives, the good people of Bicol, and our nation in mourning the passing of AKO BICOL Pary-list Rep. Rodel Batocabe, and extend my deepest condolences to his family and loved ones,” he said in a statement on Sunday.

He said Batocabe “displayed the characteristics of a true legislator: an admirable work ethic, a sincere concern for his constituents, and a firm grasp of the issues affecting them.”

“Those responsible for the senseless death of Rep. Batocabe must be brought to justice,” he said.

Rep. Rodel Batocabe (Photo from his Facebook account)

“I am confident that the authorities will utilize all the resources available to them to ensure that this crime does not go unpunished, to deliver justice, and to exert all efforts to prevent similar tragedies from happening,” he added.

The Palace official oraise Batocabe as “a good friend, a loving husband and a devoted father.”

“We pray for the eternal repose of the soul of our dear friend, Rodel; for the strength and faith of his family — his beloved spouse Gertie and their children — and for the safety of all Filipinos,” he said. /atm