Vizcaya offers P200K for identity of VM’s killers

By Leander C. Domingo

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya -- The provincial government here has offered a P200,000 reward to anyone who can give information on the identity of the suspects in the "Alameda" ambush incident that killed an Aparri town vice mayor and his five aides.
    Gov. Jose "Jing" Gambito said the offer of the monetary reward is expected to help give light to the ongoing investigation of the ambush case, adding that "any support we get is vital in upholding justice and maintaining peace within our community."
    "We are offering the amount of P200,000 to anyone who can provide crucial information that will lead to the identification and capture of the suspects in the Alameda ambush," Gambito said.
    On Feb. 19, 2023, Aparri Vice Mayor Rommel Alameda and his five aides were ambushed in Purok 5 in Sitio Kinakao, Barangay Baretbet in Bagabag town.
    The other victims of the ambush were Alexander Agustin de los Angeles, 47; Alvin de la Cruz Abel, 48; Abraham de la Cruz Ramos Jr., 48; John Duane Banag Almeda, 46; and Ismael Nanay Tumaru, all residents of Aparri.
    Gambito said he firmly believes in the power of community participation and collaborative efforts to bring justice to the victims and their families.
    "By offering this substantial reward, I hope to encourage individuals who may hold vital information to come forward and assist in the investigation," he added.
    BGen. Christopher Birung, Police Regional Office 2 director, is leading the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Alameda together with the local authorities and law enforcement agencies in actively pursuing leads and gathering evidence to prosecute the suspects.
    The provincial government here through the governor, in coordination with the SITG, also assures the public that any information provided will be handled with utmost confidentiality to protect the safety and security of the witnesses.
    Expressing again his deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims affected by this tragic incident, Gambito emphasized that their pain and suffering will not go unnoticed, and every effort will be made to ensure that justice is served.
    Meanwhile, Col. Camlon Nasdoman, Nueva Vizcaya Police Provincial Office (NVPPO) chief, urged those with potentially valuable information related to the ambush to contact the SITG Alameda through its hotline number 09602025021.
    Together with the governor and the SITG Alameda, the NVPPO is thanking anyone in advance for any assistance provided which will be "the key to resolving this crime and bringing closure to the affected families," Nasdoman said.