Davao City's peace and order remains stable despite death of Parago

DAVAO CITY, June 30 (PIA) Authorities assured the residents that the peace and order situation in the city remains stable despite the death of rebel leader Leoncio Pitao alias Kumander Parago of the Pulang Bagani Comand 1.

Senior Superintendent Vicente Danao, Jr, director of the Davao City Police Office in an audience with the members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Davao expressed hope that the perceived retaliation of Parago’s companions in the rebel movement will not happen, despite the incident.

He said a standing order has been issued to policemen assigned in the far-flung barangays of the city to be alert and extra-careful particularly in the districts of Paquibato Marilog, Baguio and other areas which might be targets of opportunity.

Danao revealed the police is watching on groups that might exploit to create trouble.

“We are even guarding the place of Kumander Parago’s wake,” he said.

Danao assured that comrades of Parago that they can visit Kumander Parago’s wake provided they do not carry weapons, explosives and that they have no standing arrest warrants.

He described Kumander Parago as a warrior who fought for his principles up to the last hour.

Danao also stressed that the rebels will continue to respect the gentleman’s agreement forged by the local leadership and the rebels not to touch anyone in the security sector despite the death of Parago.

Colonel Macairog Alberto, commander of the Task Force Davao assured the local legislators that no civilian was hit in the crossfire in the encounter between the soldiers and Kumander Parago’s group.

He said based on the investigation conducted by the Scene of the Crime Operation of the police, no civilian was hit in the encounter.

Alberto assured that both the TF Davao and the DCPO are ready to deter any threat to the city’s peace and order.   (PIA 11-Joey Sem G. Dalumpines)