ROXAS and Jay Lavapiez
ILOILO CITY – Former senator and Interior and Local Government secretary Mar Roxas has condemned the shooting of radio broadcaster Jay Lavapiez in Roxas City, the capital of Capiz province.
“I join my kasimanwas (townmates) in condemning the attempt on the life of Jay Lavapiez, a known Capiznon journalist,” said Roxas, who started his political career as congressman of the first district of Capiz, in a statement in Hiligaynon and English.
“Violence has no place in society, especially in a peace-loving province such as our beloved Capiz,” noted Roxas.
Roxas said he spoke to Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla who assured a swift investigation of the case.
“He assured a speedy investigation and apprehension of those involved. I, along with all of Capiz, will be following the case closely to ensure that justice will be done at the soonest possible time,” added Roxas.
Acting Capiz police chief Police Lt. Col. Ricardo Jomuad Jr. said investigators are looking into work-related motives.
Lavapiez was unharmed in the June 22 incident while he was on his way to work as station manager of Baskog Radyo in Roxas City.
Lavapiez and his wife India “Mamang India” Lavapiez are controversial radio commentators who have faced numerous cyber libel cases for alleged below the belt commentaries.
The Lavapiez couple was linked to Patrocinio “Don” Chiyuto Jr., who is allegedly behind the Ponzi scheme that victimized Capiz residents of billions during the pandemic.