CAMP MARCELO ADDURU, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – Police Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil, Philippine National Police chief, visited the wake of slain Rizal, Cagayan Mayor Joel Ruma on Friday, April 25.

PHILIPPINE National Police chief Police Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil visits the wake of slain Mayor Joel Ruma in Rizal, Cagayan on Friday, April 25.
Marbil condoled with the family of Ruma, a reelectionist, who was gunned down while campaigning in Barangay Illuru Sur on Wednesday evening, April 23.
READ: https://mb.com.ph/2025/4/24/reelectionist-mayor-in-cagayan-shot-dead-while-campaigning
In a press conference at the Rizal Police Station, Marbil ordered an immediate and thorough investigation of the case.
Marbil visited the scene of the incident in Barangay Illuru Sur to get a clear perspective of the crime.
He assessed the status of the investigation by the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) formed by the Police Regional Office-2.
He is optimistic that the incident will be resolved soon.
Marbil ordered intensified police visibility in areas of high tension during the election.
"Our people are more comfortable when they see our police on the streets. It is our responsibility to ensure their safety, especially during this election season," Marbil said.
The SITG is combing pieces of evidence, including CCTV footage at the scene of the crime, and interviewing possible witnesses.