Bacolod mayor assures Filipino-Chinese community of their safety
GASATAYA (Glazyl Masculino)
BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Greg Gasataya reassured the Filipino-Chinese business community that they are committed to peace and order following the murder of a businessman on Sept. 9.
“Let it be unequivocally stated that Bacolod City maintains zero tolerance for violence,” Gasataya said during a meeting with Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. and Amity Club on Thursday, Sept. 11.
Gasataya said that there will be no leniency and no refuge for those who seek to disrupt the safety and peace here.
The victim, 52-year-old civil engineer and hardware owner Romy Li, was gunned down in broad daylight while about to open his store.
Police believed the crime may have stemmed from personal grudges or business conflicts, with the perpetrators identified as possible hired gunmen.
Gasataya condoled with the victim’s family and ordered a full investigation in coordination with local police.
“This senseless act of violence has no place in Bacolod City,” he said.
Police Col. Joeresty Coronica, Bacolod City police director, assured the public that the killing is an isolated incident, and all efforts are underway to apprehend the suspect. “The BCPO is doing everything,” he said.
He said that there is no immediate cause for alarm within the business sector.
Amity Club Corporate Secretary Crispin Chua and Bacolod Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce President Elbert Valencia commended the cooperation between the police and city officials.
Business owners were urged to assist in the investigation by sharing closed circuit television (CCTV) footage and relevant evidence.
The Bacolod Tay Tung High School community mourned Li’s death, honoring him as a dedicated alumnus, board trustee, and supportive parent.
The school condemned the violence and called for justice, describing his loss as a tragedy for the entire community.
They urged authorities to pursue a swift, impartial, and thorough investigation so that justice may be served.
“Acts of violence such as this have no place in a society that values life, peace, and the common good.”