Monday, April 16, 2007 Performance Team's billboards destroyed by 'armed goons' By Erwin Ambo S. Delilan and Suzette T. Quingco
THE fears of Lakas-Kampi's Performance Team candidates are coming true as the party's billboards installed at the common poster area along the Circumferential Road, were destroyed by alleged "goons" armed with truncheons and small caliber pistol around 4 a.m. Sunday.
Shocked by the report, City Police Director Ronilo Quebrar asked Lakas-Kampi to report the incident to his office (Monday) so he can act accordingly.
"We will ensure that no one serves as goons that will destroy any campaign material of any politician in the city," assured Quebrar.
Lakas-CMD-Kampi in a statement said, "The incident indicated that armed men used minors to remove and tear the tarpaulin-made posters, mostly those of the party's bets for councilors."
The suspects were reportedly instructed to destroy the posted materials of incumbent Rep. Monico Puentevella, come-backing Mayor Joy Valdez and vice mayoralty candidate Elmer Sy.
The suspects, however, refused because the structure was too high and they were afraid they might accidentally fall, a security guard assigned at a trucking company across the common the poster site testified.
The security guard, who requested anonymity for fear that armed goons may get back at him, recalled that those responsible in destroying the billboards were on board a red plate Sedan, while the others were boarded on a four-wheel Carry-All.
"They were very noisy and were apparently in a rush as they posted look-outs while carrying out their deeds," a taxi driver parked nearby recounted.
"It is unfortunate that the opposition has taken such position. Our campaigners and members of our poster teams have already been harassed or detained for questioning by gun-toting people claiming to be policemen and barangay tanods since the start of the campaign," Lakas-Kampi added in a statement.
This is very alarming, and the Comelec should address this with stronger resolve, the statement also said.
Quebrar also denied allegation that some of his policemen are serving as body guards of some politicians in the city.
Tell me who they are and I will impose appropriate disciplinary action, Quebrar asked the public.
Should there be any hint or lead that cops in the city are proven to be involved in any political activity, or are connected with any politician in whatever capacity, don't hesitate to tell me and identify them so appropriate action shall immediately be effected.
Meanwhile, the Lakas Legal Department is preparing a formal complaint before the Comelec, which should police all forms of blatant display of force and aggression.
"They should not take their responsibility lightly. This has serious overtones as we are starting to witness the transformation of Bacolod City into a hot zone," the Lakas-Kampi further said.
Lakas-Kampi has installed around 30 common billboards as approved by the Comelec.
