Speaker calls for justice in killing of House official

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez. (File Photo: Martin Romualdez/Facebook)

By Jose Cielito Reganit, Philippine News Agency

MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday expressed profound grief and outrage over the fatal shooting of an official of the House of Representatives, calling the attack a brutal and senseless act of violence that must not go unanswered.

Director Mauricio Pulhin, 63, chief of Technical Staff of the House Committee on Ways and Means, was gunned down over the weekend in an incident that has shocked the congressional community and raised concerns over the safety of government personnel.

“I am deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic death of Director Mauricio ‘Morrie’ Pulhin. This crime must not go unanswered. Justice must prevail,” Romualdez said in a statement.

The leader of the House of Representatives described Pulhin as “a long-serving and dedicated public servant.”

“His professionalism, integrity, and quiet commitment to his work earned him the respect of his peers and superiors alike. We condemn this brutal act of violence in the strongest possible terms,” he said.

Romualdez called on the Philippine National Police (PNP), the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), and other law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough, impartial, and swift investigation.

“All angles must be pursued –including, but not limited to, his professional affiliations– so that the truth may come out and justice may be served,” he added.

Romualdez extended deep condolences and unwavering support to Pulhin’s family.

“We will do everything in our power to ensure that those behind this crime –whether the perpetrators or the masterminds– are brought to justice,” he assured.

The Speaker also addressed members of the House Secretariat and the congressional workforce, urging unity and vigilance in the wake of the killing.

“To the men and women of the House Secretariat and our broader congressional family: we share in your grief and your anger. Let us channel that into vigilance, unity, and an unwavering demand for justice — not only for Director Pulhin, but for every Filipino who falls victim to senseless violence,” he said.

According to the Quezon City Police District, Pulhin was shot around 2:50 p.m. on Sunday during his daughter’s birthday celebration in Barangay Commonwealth, Quezon City.

Initial investigation revealed that two unidentified suspects entered the venue and shot the victim at close range. As they fled on a motorcycle, they also fired at the subdivision’s security guard before escaping.

The victim was rushed to the Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation Hospital but was later declared dead by the attending physician.