BARICUATRO (FB)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) has increased the security detail for Cebu Gov. Pam Baricuatro after she disclosed the alleged attempt to have her killed for a price of P2.5 million.
From two police escorts, PNP spokesman Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño said the number was increased to two teams composed of 14 policemen who were tapped to secure the governor 24/7.
“We are still verifying the death threat and in the meantime, there were additional policemen tasked to secure her,’ said Tuaño.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr. earlier ordered intelligence units to investigate the death threat against Baricuatro.
“We have already mobilized our regional personnel not only to step up the security measures but also to identify and run after all those behind this threat,” said Nartatez.
The same security measures, he said, extends to all public officials who experience the same harassments and threats in the performance of their duty.
Baricuatro recently went public with claims of a serious security threat and said that a P2.5 million contract has been placed on her life.
According to her, a hired killer from Mindanao has been tasked with the hit, which is reportedly planned to take place outside of Cebu.
While verification is ongoing, Nartatez ordered the deployment of additional tactical security personnel to ensure there will be no loophole on the governor’s security.
Tuaño said the initial investigation revealed that the death threat was relayed to Baricuatro through a personal assistant who got the information about the alleged offer to have the Cebu governor killed.
“We are taking all threats seriously, that is the reason why additional personnel were sent to secure her while the investigation is ongoing,” said Tuaño.