By Nef Luczon
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Members of the legal community and local officials in this city joined the family of a slain government employee in seeking justice following his fatal shooting here on Friday night.
The victim, Niruh Kyle Antatico, a Juris Doctor graduate and employee of the National Irrigation Authority – Northern Mindanao (NIA-10), was gunned down by motorcycle-riding assailants along the highway in Barangay Patag.
In a statement, 1st District Rep. Lordan Suan called on law enforcement to conduct a swift, transparent and thorough investigation.
“Those who plotted and carried out this brutal killing must be found, prosecuted and made to answer fully for the crime,” he said.
Investigators consider Antatico’s recent social media posts about alleged irrigation infrastructure irregularities as a possible motive for the attack.
Former city mayor and law professor Oscar Moreno also denounced the killing, stressing that “violence must never be the price of speaking one’s mind or standing for what is right.”
Law professor and litigator Alfred Gaccion said Antatico’s courage will forever inspire the public who believe in truth and justice.
Former Bukidnon Board member and Indigenous Peoples representative Bagani Llesis likewise condemned the killing, expressing confidence that “the long arm of the law will eventually catch all the culprits.”
Meanwhile, NIA-10 said in a statement that it is aware of the victim’s recent social media posts raising concerns about certain projects in the region.
“The NIA top management has already initiated a comprehensive review and verification process in collaboration with relevant offices and appropriate authorities,” the statement said.
The agency said it was not the first time that there were claims of irregularities. These, however, have been addressed.
It also reiterated that NIA is committed to prioritizing transparency and accountability in all of its operations. (PNA)
