Authorities intensify efforts to uphold peace after Barobo Mayor targeted in shooting incident
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
BAROBO, Surigao del Sur (PIA) --- Government officials have assured the public of a swift and thorough response following the shooting incident that wounded Barobo Mayor Ronito L. Martizano and his military escort, PFC Khevin Mark Claridad, on February 3, 2026, in Barangay Dughan, in Barobo town.
Mayor Martizano, traveling from Sitio Panaraga, Barangay Gamut, to Barobo proper, was ambushed when unidentified suspects blocked his vehicle and fired several shots before fleeing toward San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. Both victims are now reported to be in stable condition.
In response, the Surigao del Sur Provincial Police Office, led by Provincial Director Colonel Jeffrey Lawrence D. Mauricio, has activated the Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) Martizano to spearhead the investigation. Authorities are closely monitoring a Person of Interest and continue to gather evidence to ensure the swift apprehension of the perpetrators. The public is urged to rely only on official information to avoid the spread of unverified reports.
2nd District Congressman Alexander T. Pimentel condemned the attack as an affront to the rule of law, democracy, and the safety of all elected officials. As chairperson of the House Committee on Strategic Intelligence and member of the Committee on Public Order and Safety, Pimentel is coordinating with the PNP and NBI to ensure that justice is served, emphasizing that violence against Surigaonon public officials will not be tolerated.
Governor Johnny Pimentel echoed these sentiments, affirming the provincial government’s full support for law enforcement agencies. “Attacks against our local leaders threaten not only individual lives but also the peace, stability, and democratic institutions we work hard to uphold in our province. The law must be respected, and those responsible will be held accountable."
This coordinated response reflects the current administration’s national agenda of promoting peace, protecting public officials, and strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring that communities remain safe and orderly.
Authorities continue to investigate, and updates will be provided as the situation develops. (NGPB, PIA-Surigao del Sur)
