BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — A wave of outrage has enveloped Negros Occidental following the harrowing attack on three minors in Silay City, resulting in the death of a 9-year-old and leaving two others hospitalized. The tragic incident has drawn widespread condemnation from community leaders and residents alike, who are calling for swift justice.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson announced that law enforcement has already identified a person of interest in the case. Both the local police in Silay and the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office have initiated their investigations, showcasing their commitment to resolving the matter quickly. “We are confident the suspect will soon be in custody,” Lacson stated, mentioning that a reward for information leading to the arrest is no longer needed since the suspect’s identity is known.
As focus shifts to the victims’ family, the situation is particularly poignant for the mother, who has recently returned from working in Saudi Arabia to support her family. “We are coordinating assistance for the family during this difficult time, especially as one of the survivors remains in critical condition,” the governor emphasized. “We can call upon organizations like the Philippine Red Cross or the Negros First Blood Center to address any urgent medical needs.”
In light of the brutality of the crime, authorities have also established a monetary reward totaling P100,000 for information that could lead to resolving the case involving the three siblings at Hacienda Badiang, Barangay E-Lopez. Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region Director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay has urged investigators to rigorously pursue every avenue, ensuring that the case is backed by substantial evidence. “We are dedicated to ensuring that justice is served for these innocent children,” he affirmed.
Local officials have rallied together to enhance the reward pool, with Silay City Mayor Joedith Gallego pledging P25,000. “This senseless violence against children has devastated our community; we will exhaust every effort to apprehend those responsible,” Gallego declared. Additionally, Negros Occidental 3rd District Representative Javier Miguel “Javi” Benitez contributed P50,000, asserting that such brutality is intolerable in the province. Former Talisay City Vice Mayor Samuel “Sam” Siote matched that amount, expressing his solidarity with the grieving family.
Currently, investigators are conducting interviews with witnesses and scrutinizing surveillance footage to gather more evidence. Authorities are reminding the public that any information provided will be kept confidential, and the full reward will be handed out once the suspect is formally charged.
Amidst the agony of the victims’ family, the community stands united, emphasizing that such acts of violence have no place anywhere. Vital support systems are being mobilized to ensure that the family receives the necessary care and assistance during this harrowing time.