AMID the recent killing of another village chief in Isabela town, Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) in Negros Occidental president Juvy Pepello has urged law enforcers to "go the extra mile" in ensuring peace and order in the province.
Pepello, who pushed for the passage of a resolution extending condolences to the bereaved family of Libas village chief Rhoy Pagapang during the regular session of the Municipal Council Wednesday, August 22, said two barangay captains were already killed in Isabela, thus, more forces are needed especially in the locality.
On Monday, August 20, Pagapang was gunned down by members of the New People's Army (NPA) at Barangay Cabcab.
The Leonardo Panaligan Command (LPC) of the NPA alleged that Pagapang was a "military asset."
On August 10, former village chief Agapito Euroba of Barangay San Agustin, was also gunned down by these rebels, claiming that he was also an asset of the military.
"Though it is not yet alarming as these killing incidents involving barangay officials happened in one locality only, we are calling on top officials of the police and military in the province to intensify their efforts in ensuring security especially in Isabela," Pepello said.
They are also planning to meet with Senior Superintendent Rodolfo Castil Jr., provincial police director, about this concern, she added.
In the approved resolution of the Council, the Barangay League head said that the barangay as the basic unit of the government is tasked to maintain peace and order. It must also tap the services of the peacekeeping bodies.
On behalf of the Barangay League officers, "we encourage our police and military men to go the extra mile in protecting our elected public officials, specifically our barangay captains."
When asked if arming barangay officials is necessary, Pepello said it depends whether there is really a need to do so and if they can pass certain requirements like the neuropsychological tests.
Pepello, who is a psychologist, pointed out that barangay captains need to also have a license to own and possess firearms.
"There is a need for a person to know whether he can handle a weapon," she said, adding that "if you are irritable, the gun can be easily used for other reasons instead of purely defending yourself."
The League, moreover, has also urged all village chiefs in the province to take precautionary measures in ensuring safety among themselves.
