The Philippine National Police has been asked to act swiftly and decisively in resolving the brutal killing of a community leader days after the 2025 midterm elections.
Solon urges cops to quickly resolve murder of community leader
Published May 28, 2025 09:25 pm
Cavite Rep. and House Assistant Majority Leader Aniela Tolentino issued the appeal on Wednesday following the murder of Shackie Denajiba, 48, a known campaign supporter of Naic, Cavite Mayor-elect Rommel Magbitang.
“This cannot be allowed to fade into another unsolved statistic. The people of Cavite deserve answers and justice,” Tolentino said in her appeal to Cavite police chief Police Col. Dwight Alegre and Naic police chief Police Lt. Col. Resty Soriano.
“Shackie Denajiba was not just a political supporter – he was a model father, a devoted husband, and a pillar of his community,” said Tolentino. “His murder is not just a personal loss for his family, but a painful reminder of the persistent threat of violence tied to politics.”
Tolentino warned against allowing impunity to take root, especially on the local level.
“We cannot, and must not, let a culture of fear and intimidation thrive in our province. Authorities must act now, not later. Every day that passes without accountability is a blow to public trust,” she said.
Denajiba was gunned down in broad daylight in front of his residence in Barangay Sabang last Saturday, sparking outrage and fears of politically motivated violence.
The victim was about to board his vehicle parked outside his home when a lone assailant shot him in the head at close range. He died instantly. The gunman calmly walked away and fled with a motorcycle-riding accomplice who waited a few meters from the crime scene.
The victim’s family said no significant progress has been reported by local police.
Family members, who requested anonymity for security reasons, believe the killing was politically motivated. They cited Denajiba’s prominent role in the recent election campaign as a key figure in Magbitang’s successful bid.