Vice mayor says he’s not hiding

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Vice Mayor Ian Villaflor of Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental refuted reports that he is in hiding.

“This is to inform my beloved constituents, the people of Moises Padilla, everyone concerned and the public that I am on official leave,” Villaflor said in an official statement issued Wednesday.

He added that “contrary to the fake news and the lies being spread around, I am not in hiding.”

The issue surfaced following reports that a warrant of arrest was issued against Villaflor and several others implicated in the murder of town councilor Jolomar Hilario.

“As a dedicated public servant in the town of Moises Padilla, my office continues to perform and fulfill the duties and responsibilities as best as we can,” Villaflor said

However, he pointed out that recent circumstances have continued to put his life in danger and forced him to take the necessary precaution for “my personal safety and security as well as for my family.”

“Out of my dedication and genuine concern to be able to continue to help and serve our people of Moises Padilla, I cannot take for granted the continuing threats to my life, liberty and security. I cannot and will not be reckless to ignore the threats which can no longer be taken lightly.”

Villaflor said they have filed a petition asking the Department of Justice to review the murder case filed against them.

He also said that the New People’s Army admitted to killing Hilario and that “implicating us in the crime is totally unfair, uncalled for, and baseless.”

“I have been the target of a certain personality in the province who previously had filed a series of trumped-up cases against me and were dismissed by the concerned government agencies.”