Lakas-CMD calls for peaceful Zambo Norte polls after attack on staffer

ILIGAN CITY – The Lakas-CMD party in Zamboanga del Norte has called for peaceful elections in the province following an attack against its community campaigner in Gutalac town last Jan. 15.

Marlon Pacuyao, a community leader of reelectionist Mayor Eddie Justine Quimbo, was shot by still unidentified suspects in Barangay Malian.

According to Quimbo, Pacuyao sustained a gunshot wound to his back but was last listed in stable condition.

Quimbo added that authorities are still probing the incident, especially the motive of the attack.

“Regardless of the motive, I strongly condemn this violent incident. Such acts are not only violations of the law but also direct assaults on the principles of peace and justice that should prevail, especially during the election period,” outgoing Dipolog City Mayor Darel Dexter Uy said in a statement.

“As of January 12, 2025, the election gun ban is already in effect. Therefore, the use of firearms to intimidate, exploit, or disrupt our democratic process must not be tolerated. Such abuses have no place in our province and in a civilized and peaceful community,” Uy added.

Uy said that Pacuyao is also a campaign leader of his party in Gutalac.