PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) director general Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa attended opening ceremonies of the Cordillera Administrative Region Athletics Association (Caraa) in Abra in a show of support to a province rocked with violence.
“I was motivated to come here in Abra because of the incident to see for myself kung ano ba talaga nangyari dito at gusto kung ipakita na the PNP is here to serve and protect.”
Dela Rosa revealed at least three suspects are now being monitored by police following the grenade blast in La Paz, Abra which killed two police officers and injured bystanders with Representative Joseph Sto. Nino Bernos and his wife Menchie.
The PNP has declined to reveal identities of the suspects as of press time.
Dela Rosa added they are doing everything they can to address the incident and bring the perpetrators to justice adding his dismay over the continued presence of lawless elements in the province who continue to undermine the gains of the people, the local government and the local police of Abra in sustaining peace and security in the province.
“Your PNP will not allow these lawless elements the chance to further advance their motives.”
Dela Rosa noted they are looking at all possible angles in the blast that killed a SAF member who survived the Mamasapano massacre three years ago.
With the province of Abra hosting the weeklong event, dela Rosa said security has been tightened and strengthened as local police and the military are on their toes 24/7 to ensure no incident will happen again especially during the weeklong sports meet.
Bernos meanwhile lauded the fast resolution of the case while dispelling political acts to be behind the brutal blast.
“We leave it all to the PNP” said the solon.
Governor Ma. Jocelyn Bernos meanwhile said the breakthrough in the blast last month is good news for the province wanting to resolve on the investigation being done by the police.
“That’s good news. Lahat ng angles we will consider mapa political man or sa insurgency but will wait for the result from the PNP,” added Bernos.