MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte on Wednesday called on concerned government agencies to ensure public safety after Dr. Sharmaine Barroquillo, 27, was attacked and shot by lawless elements in Maguindanao del Sur. Barroquillo survived the attack but sustained three gunshot wounds to the left shoulder and lower back that penetrated her spinal cord. “Magtulungan po tayo at huwag nating hayaang maghari ang mga kriminal sa ating mga komunidad (let us help each other and not allow criminals to reign in our communities),” she added. According to Duterte, no one, especially responsible citizens and government employees like Barroquillo, should suffer violence at the hands of criminals. “Ang nangyari sa kanya sa Buluan, Maguindanao ay isa lamang sa mga insidente ng karahasan sa buong bansa na sumasalamin sa estado ng seguridad at kaayusan ng bansa,” said Duterte.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer February 14, 2024 19:59 UTC