BAGUIO CITY — The League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) has strongly condemned the murder of reelectionist Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma, who was shot by gunmen on the evening of 23 April, while campaigning inside a gymnasium in Barangay Iluru, Rizal.

In a statement, the LMP, led by its National President and La Paz Town Mayor, Aris Bernos, called on the Commission on Elections, National Bureau of Investigation, Philippine National Police and other authorities to address the serious threats public servants face, especially during the election season.

Mayor Ruma was shot in the chest while at a rally and was rushed to Tuao District Hospital, where he later died. Two others, Merson Abiguebel and Melanie Talay, were also injured by stray bullets.

“This heinous act has shaken us all and deeply affected the community he served so well,” said Bernos, urging Filipinos to condemn violence and support peaceful, honest elections in a safe environment.

The LMP president also expressed condolences to Mayor Ruma’s family, friends, and constituents, saying, “May justice be served, and his legacy inspire the kind of leadership the nation needs.”

Meanwhile, Cagayan Province Governor Manuel Mamba has offered a P1 million reward for information that may lead to the swift resolution of the case. He also urged Rizal residents to cooperate with authorities in identifying those responsible for the mayor’s murder.