The 146-strong League of Cities of the Philippines condemns in the strongest possible terms the brutal murder by ambush of Calbayog City Mayor Ronaldo P. Aquino on 08 March 2021. This cowardly act executed in broad daylight is a sobering call for vigilance and a cry for absolute peace and order.
Mayor Aquino was an active member of the LCP. He was a friend to many of his colleagues and was well-loved by the residents of Calbayog. He is fondly remembered for his active participation in various programs and projects of the League geared towards fiscal autonomy and good local governance.
We demand swift and immediate justice for the orchestrated ambush of Mayor Aquino and we appeal to police authorities for a thorough investigation of his killing. We count on them to bring to justice the perpetrators of this terrifying act and seek any witnesses that may provide clarity on the incident.
The League, for its part, is even more emboldened to continue to actively pursue efforts against criminality and lawlessness in order to keep our cities and our people safe and secure.
Today, the City of Calbayog lost a good son and we express our deepest condolences to Mayor Aquino's family and the rest of Calbayognons. His life may have ended so abruptly, but his legacy of public service will continue to inspire his fellow civil servants.