PNP chief orders full probe into Cagayan town mayor’s slay

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil on Friday directed the Cagayan provincial police to conduct an exhaustive investigation into the assassination of Rizal town Mayor Joel Ruma, who was seeking reelection.

Marbil gave the directive during his visit to Ruma’s wake, where he personally extended condolences to the family. 

Following the wake, the PNP chief proceeded to Barangay Illuru Sur, the site where the mayor was gunned down by an unidentified assailant while on a campaign sortie last April 23.

He later visited the Rizal Police Station to meet with personnel and urged them to exert all efforts to solve the case swiftly and maintain peace in the lead-up to the May 12 elections.

“Our people’s safety is our responsibility, and they feel more secure when they see us on the streets, especially in areas with high tensions during election season. This is why we are ramping up our police visibility to ensure peace and order,” Marbil said.

During his visit, Marbil also attended a meeting with the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) assigned to Ruma’s case. 

The task force, formed by the Police Regional Office 2 (Cagayan Valley), provided updates on the ongoing investigation, which includes reviewing surveillance footage and analyzing other critical evidence to identify those behind the attack.

“We are dedicated to ensuring justice is served for Mayor Ruma, the two other (injured) victims, and the residents of Rizal, Cagayan,” he said.

Marbil’s presence in Cagayan highlights the PNP’s active role in upholding President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen peace and security nationwide.

“The Bagong Pilipinas initiative emphasizes transparency, justice, and peace, and the PNP is steadfast in its commitment to these goals,” Marbil added.