MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health on Monday vowed to pursue justice for the deaths of National Center for Mental Health chief Dr. Roland Cortez and his driver, who were ambushed by riding-in-tandem assailants in Barangay Culiat, Quezon City.
In a statement, the DOH said it was “shocked and alarmed” at the death of Cortez and his driver Ernesto Dela Cruz, who were found dead with gunshot wounds inside a red Toyota Vios parked on the corner of Cassanova Drive and Tandang Sora Avenue on Monday morning.
“The DOH family extends its deepest condolences to the families of Dr. Roland and Mr. Ernesto, and vows to pursue justice for their untimely deaths,” the department said.
“Dr. Cortez was a respected leader who sought to treat clients with utmost dignity,” it added.
The DOH said it is coordinating with the Philippine National Police and concerned authorities “to ensure that all perpetrators are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“The DOH denounces all violent acts committed against healthcare workers, especially during these difficult times,” it added.