Isabela City, Basilan – The head of peace and order and anti-drugs campaign of the Isabela City local government was shot dead in front of his house in Barangay San Rafael, Isabela City, Basilan, on the night of February 20.
The victim, identified as Ricardo “Rix” La Guardia, was a well-known advocate of the city’s anti-drug and peace initiatives. He was a close partner of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin Hataman’s office in implementing security programs.
In a statement, Basilan Congressman Mujiv Hataman strongly condemned the killing and expressed concern over the continuing violence despite the existing gun ban.
“The gun ban is ineffective; criminals are now more at large. Law-abiding citizens are the ones suffering. Rix’s death is a great loss to Isabela City, as he played a crucial role in the mayor’s efforts for peace and the anti-drug campaign. Justice must be served immediately,” Hataman said.
Basilan Governor also released a detailed statement condemning the attack:
“We strongly condemn the brutal killing of Rix La Guardia, a hardworking and dedicated public servant whose only desire was to help maintain peace and order in our province.
Rix, or ‘Dodong’ as I called him, was a young man with compassion, ambition, and the potential to contribute even more to the communities of Isabela City and Basilan, but his life was cruelly taken by the hands of violence.
We call on the authorities to go after the assailants and mastermind behind this heinous crime. They must be identified and arrested to be held accountable under our laws. Such evil acts should have no place in a society striving for peace and justice.
We will always remember Rix as that vibrant young person who always brought a smile to everyone he encountered. His contributions were significant in our efforts to make Basilan safer and more peaceful. He was a true public servant and a pillar of the Peace, Order, and Public Security (POPS) Program in Isabela City. His dedication and service to his community were invaluable.
In fact, Isabela City received numerous awards for peace and security, public safety, and anti-drug abuse programs, with Rix playing a key role. Because of his efforts, the number of drug-free barangays in Isabela City increased from nine to twenty-five.
Rix was also a scholar of the ARMM regional government when I was regional governor. A life full of potential and compassion was wasted due to greed and violence. This is no ordinary crime – this is an attack on peace, on our communities, and on our dreams of a peaceful and progressive Basilan.
To Rix’s family and loved ones, I extend my deepest condolences for your loss. I know that no words can fill the void left behind, but rest assured that we will fight for justice for Rix.
Let us put an end to the culture of fear and silence. We must remain steadfast in our goal to make our province safe for everyone.
Once again, justice for Rix La Guardia!”
Authorities are currently investigating the case to identify the perpetrators and determine the motive behind the crime.
Meanwhile, La Guardia’s family, friends, and colleagues have called for swift action from law enforcement to ensure justice is served.
