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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Governor's group calls for extreme measures to protect barangay officials from political violence

Governor's group calls for extreme measures to protect barangay officials from political violence

Published Mar 10, 2025 06:44 am
ULAP LOGO
(ULAP logo)

The Union of Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP) has expressed full support to the urgent call of the Liga ng mga Barangay for concrete measures to address the alarming rise of political violence against village officials.

With 36 recorded incidents of violence in 2024 alone, resulting in the tragic deaths of 28 barangay officials, the ULAP reiterated the immediate need for enhanced security measures, institutional safeguards, and legislative reforms to protect local leaders at the grassroots level.

“We cannot stand by while our barangay officials continue to face threats and violence simply for serving their communities,” said ULAP national president Dakila Carlo Cua.

He asserted that ULAP stands in solidarity with the Liga ng mga Barangay in calling for immediate action from the national government, law enforcement agencies and legislators to safeguard the lives and welfare of barangay leaders. 

“Increasing threats and violence against local officials undermine not only their safety but also the integrity of democratic processes,” Cua noted.

With the approaching 2025 elections, the governor’s group stressed that ensuring the safety of barangay and all local officials- governors, mayors, councilors and other local government unit (LGU) leaders is critical in preserving electoral integrity, grassroots governance and community stability. 

“Political violence must not be allowed to dictate leadership at any level of government,” Cua pointed out.

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