Solon reiterates call to end violence in Samar

CALBAYOG CITY, Samar, Feb. 21 (PNA) -– A local official here has again called for an end to violence in Samar province that started last year and persisted until this year.

Samar 1st legislative district Rep. Edgar Mary Sarmiento appealed to all politicians and those supporting private armed groups to stop violent attacks against political foes.

The solon was referring to the recent grenade attacks at the residence of San Jorge, Samar Mayor Joseph Grey, ambush of town Vice Mayor Nancy Grey, ambush of former San Jorge mayoralty bet Lester Bisnar, and killing of a school teacher in this city.

The latest violent incident was on Feb. 19 when Bisnar’s 76-year-old mother was killed while heading home from Sunday morning mass. The family claimed that their political opponents are behind the shooting incident.

All cases remained unsolved, according to the local police.

“We are tired of these killings and chaos happening in our province. We are appealing for your support in reducing the abusive greed for power and money that have been destroying our people and province,” Sarmiento said.

Meanwhile, the business sector of the Calbayog city asked the government to solve and deter crimes in Samar as it might affect the business sector and drive away potential investors.

Bobby Roño, president of Greater Calbayog Chamber of Commerce, feared that non-stop violence may affect the local economy.

“I think the city government and the council will agree that we need to implement specific initiatives to enhance security measures by way of strengthening our community policing,” Rono added. (PNA)

LAP/SQM/JAZMIN BONIFACIO/EGR