Hataman seeks justice for slay of Isabela village chief
“HUSTISYA ang ating panawagan sa pagpatay kay Kapitan Franklyn Tan. Pag pinalagpas natin ito, lalong lalakas ang loob ng mga nais maghasik ng kasamaan at karahasan sa lalawigan ng Basilan. Hindi takot at pangamba ang sagot natin dito, kundi pagtugis sa may-sala at katarungan!”
This was the statement made by Deputy Minority Leader and Basilan Rep. Mujiv Hataman in reaction to the brutal killing of Franklyn Tan, barangay captain of Barangay Seaside in Isabela City, and the wounding of another last Feb. 25 in an ambush in front of Puerta Del Ciudad Hotel located in Nunez Extension, Zamboanga City.
“Mariin nating kinukundena ang pagpatay kay Kapitan Franklyn at ang pagkapinsala kay Barangay Captain Jaider Jundam. Kahit kailan, kahit saan, walang puwang ang karahasan sa isang mapayapa at demoratikong lipunan. Walang justification ang pagkitil ng buhay,” said Hataman, former governor of the now-defunct ARMM.
“Hindi ito dapat nangyayari sa ating mamamayan, opisyal man ng pamahalaan o ordinaryong tao lamang. The brutal murder of Kapitan Franklyn not only robbed his family and community of a beloved leader but also struck a blow to the foundations of peace and order that we strive very hard to uphold in Basilan,” he added.
Police reports indicate that two still unidentified assailants riding in a motorcycle shot at the group of Tan, Jundam and Daryl Jalani in front of the Puerta Del Ciudad Hotel. The three were rushed to the Ciudad Medical Zamboanga Hospital, but Tan expired.
“The incident underscores the urgent need for authorities to intensify efforts in ensuring the safety and security of every Filipino citizen. Peace and order are indispensable pillars for the growth and development of our communities in Basilan and throughout the country,” Hataman said.
“However, incidents like these only serve to sow fear and instability, hindering progress and prosperity,” he continued.
Hataman called on authorities to swiftly and thoroughly investigate this heinous crime and to bring the perpetrators and masterminds to justice.
“Dapat managot ang mga responsable sa pagpatay na ito, kasama na ang mastermind. Justice must be served for the sake of his grieving family and for the preservation of peace in our communities,” Hataman expressed. “Nakikiramay ako sa pamilya at kaanak ni Kapitan Franklyn. At dalangin natin ang agarang paggaling ni Kapitan Jaider. Let us stand united in condemning acts of violence and in upholding the principles of justice, peace and respect for human life.”
