DOT condemns killing of New Zealand tourist
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) condemned in the strongest possible terms the criminal act that resulted in the untimely death of a 34-year-old New Zealand tourist.
Nicholas Peter Stacey, was fatally shot once in the chest while trying to wrest a pistol from one of the two robbers.
Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco sought the assistance of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to bring to justice the perpetrators of the crime.
Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. assured Frasco of the steadfast resolution of the case.
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the bereaved family.”
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is actively working with authorities primarily the Philippine National Police and has reached out to concerned embassy officials to lend the necessary assistance.
In a statement, the DOT said “this dastardly act is not reflective of the millions of peace-loving Filipinos across the country. We shall continue t in the efforts to work with relevant and government agencies for the continued peace and security of tourists visiting the Philippines.”
The victim’s girlfriend, Pamela Gaye Villanoza, told investigators she and Mr Stacey had just arrived in the capital region from a holiday trip in the western island province of Palawan and were walking to a laundry shop in the early hours after midnight when the suspects approached on a motorcycle.
One of them alighted and pointed a pistol at the couple while his companion parked the motorcycle a few meters away.
Stacey engaged in a struggle with the armed man and was shot and killed, she said.
Before fleeing, the gunman took the mobile phone and wallet of Stacey’s girlfriend, police said.
