Galvez denounces attack on Maguindanao vice mayor: Violence against public officials an 'attack on democracy'

The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) denounced the gun attack on the vice mayor of a municipality in Maguindanao del Sur, saying any act of violence against public officials is an “attack on democracy.”
Datu Piang Municipal Vice Mayor Mohammad Omar Samama was shot and wounded while delivering a speech during a relief operation activity in Barangay Magaslong on Monday.
“Violence against public officials is an attack on our democracy and demands our condemnation, vigilance, and collective action,” OPAPRU Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said on Tuesday, Feb. 25, which coincided with the commemoration of the 39th anniversary of the People Power revolution.
According to the peace adviser, such a brazen act of violence was “an affront to the rule of law and has no place in a peaceful and humane society.”
Galvez extended his thoughts to Samama and his family.
“We are praying for his immediate recovery and safety so that he may continue to serve his people,” he said.
Meanwhile, Galvez expressed hope that law enforcers would be able to arrest the gunman.
“We trust that the authorities will conduct a swift and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and guarantee the peace and security of all citizens,” he said.