SU’s Official Statement on the Killing of Gov. Roel Degamo

The Silliman University (SU) community joins the people of Negros Oriental and the rest of the country in condemning the dastardly killing of Governor Roel Ragay Degamo, last Saturday, March 4, 2023 at his residence in Pamplona.

SU is deeply saddened and condemns in the strongest possible terms the senseless killing of the governor and the eight other individuals who lost their lives in the tragic incident. The SU Board of Trustees, administrators, faculty, staff, and the students, extend heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims, and we stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time.

Degamo, a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering graduate, 1989, was brutally killed together with eight other civilians in what the authorities described as a massacre. Gov. Degamo was meeting local residents who were seeking assistance through the governor’s programs when the armed men entered his residential compound in Pamplona town and opened fire.

SU also expresses its concern for the 13 individuals who were injured in the incident and pray for their speedy recovery as it calls the authorities to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident to ensure that justice is served, and the perpetrators are held accountable for their actions. SU remains committed to upholding the principles of peace, justice, and respect for human life believing that violence has no place in our society.

We call on all our fellow Filipinos to join us in condemning this senseless act of violence. Let us work together towards a peaceful and just society where every individual’s right to life is respected and protected. We also stand in solidarity with the people of Negros Oriental during this difficult time, and we offer our prayers and support, especially to the victims and their families.

Let us unite as a community and strive for a better tomorrow.