Nograles undermines NPA threats (4:15 p.m.)

MANILA -- “I will not be terrorized,” said House Speaker and Davao mayoralty candidate Prospero Nograles on rebel threats.

Nograles issued this statement following the roadside bombing that killed an army soldier and three others after responding to two of his supporters who were allegedly robbed by members of the New People's Army (NPA).

“I will fight using my solid platform of government and my commitment to reform Davao City. This is my only weapon to defeat these terrorists and extortionists,” he said.

The Speaker once again called on the Commission and Elections (Comelec) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to send in more security to Davao city.

“The Comelec through the AFP should assert its presence in these areas to ensure clean, honest and peaceful elections in Davao City. The Comelec should not allow the NPAs to terrorize these communities and force them to submit only to their will.”

Earlier, Nograles accused opponent incumbent Mayor Rodrigo Duterte of cuddling rebels and using public funds for the rebel insurgency.

He also accused Duterte of allying with Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago. (Angela Casauay/Sunnex)