Aquino hands-on on law and order amid spate of killings—Coloma

President Benigno S. Aquino III. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines –President Benigno Aquino III is hands-on when it comes to law and order, especially amid the recent spate of killings, Malacanang said Monday.

“What I can say is that the President takes a very serious and hands-on attitude when it comes to crime and police matters,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. told media.

“I have been with him on several occasions where I have actually witnessed that he has called up a particular officer to inquire about an incident report or to make sure that a report on a serious crime is being handled properly and with utmost urgency,” he revealed.

The statement came days after the murder of international race car driver Ferdinand Pastor and more than a week after the death of Urbistondo Mayor Ernesto Balolong Jr. and police inspector Rodelio Diongco.

The separate cases involved unidentified gunmen on board a motorcycle or a vehicle.

Coloma said the government is doing everything to ensure the safety of the public.

“These are matters of serious concern that should prompt our law enforcement authorities to intensify their crime prevention efforts,” he said. “And one of the principles in crime prevention is getting the support of the citizenry in terms of police community cooperation.”

He explained that cooperation of citizens is crucial in bolstering police efforts.