PNP probes threat on Cebu governor’s life

Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. on Monday ordered intelligence units to investigate the death threat against Cebu Governor Pam Baricuatro.

Nartatez issued the directive to the Police Regional Office-7 (PRO-7) and the Cebu Police Provincial Office (PPO) to intensify intelligence monitoring after the governor bared an alleged P2.5 million bounty on her life.

“We have already mobilized our regional personnel not only to step up the security measures but also to identify and run after all those behind this threat,” Nartatez said.

The same security measures, he said, extend to all public officials who experience the same harassment and threats in the performance of their duty.

Governor Baricuatro recently went public, saying there is a serious security threat and that a P2.5 million contract has been placed on her life. According to intelligence she received, a hired killer from Mindanao has been tasked with the hit, which is reportedly planned to take place outside of Cebu.

While verification is ongoing, Nartatez ordered the deployment of additional tactical security personnel to ensure there will be no loopholes in the governor’s security, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla to ensure the safety and security of all elected officials.

Nartatez said the PNP continues to strengthen coordination with local authorities and maintain a visible presence in all areas frequented by Governor Baricuatro.

In a press briefing held at Camp Crame on Monday, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the PNP chief also ordered the deployment of 14 additional police security aides to Baricuatro.

“Ang orihinal na allowed na security para sa nasabing gobernadora ay dalawa. Base sa kautusan ng ating chief PNP naglagay po siya ng two teams of seven,” Tuaño said.

“At any given day meron po siyang bantay na additional na pito at kinabukasan pag sila ay magpapalitan may additional pa rin na pito,” he added.