Authorities play down politics in mayor’s slay

From The Standard (Oct 20): Authorities play down politics in mayor’s slay

A security official yesterday played down politics as the motive behind the slaying of three-term Tungawan, Zamboanga Sibugay Mayor Randy Climaco, who was ambushed last week just after he filed his Certificate of Candidacy for vice mayor.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, linked the elements of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front’s113rd Base Command as behind Climaco’s ambush.

“The ambushed was not likely politically motivated. It was only timed for the first day of filling of candidacy. We are looking at grudge between the mayor and some elements of the MILF,” the security official said.

Climaco’s Vice Mayor Abison Abduraok, who is running for mayor, five escorts and a driver were wounded in the attack.

It has been reported that Climaco is at odds with some MILF groups over control of rubber plantations in the town.

Philippine National Police chief Ricardo Marquez also said he does not believe politics is the reason for the attack and that he shares the Commission on Elections’ outlook
that the week-long filling of Certificates of Candidacy nationwide was peaceful.

He added that the PNP’s security preparations for the CoC was successful.

The PNP aims to reduce election-related violent incidents posted in two previous national elections in 2010 and 2013, “we have to further reduce election-related incidents. The direction today is adopted whole-of-government approach,” Marquez said.

http://thestandard.com.ph/news/-provinces/189922/authorities-play-down-politics-in-mayor-s-slay.html