Angeles City Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr. has instructed the Angeles City Police Office (ACPO) to resolve a series of robberies targeting Korean nationals within 48 hours. The mayor’s directive comes after a string of incidents reported from November to December 2024, where a gang of four men, armed with pistols and riding motorcycles, allegedly carried out the robberies.
In a memorandum dated December 28, 2024, Acting City Mayor Ma. Vicenta Vega-Cabigting emphasized the urgency of resolving the crimes, directing ACPO Director PCOL. Amado Mendoza Jr. to take immediate action. The memorandum expressed the city government’s concern over the safety of foreign nationals, particularly the Korean community, and highlighted the need for swift police intervention.
Mayor Lazatin expressed his dissatisfaction with the situation, stressing that such criminal activities are unacceptable, especially during the holiday season. He reiterated the city’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors and holding the perpetrators accountable. “We expect swift action from our police force to put an end to these incidents,” Mayor Lazatin stated.
Acting Mayor Vega-Cabigting echoed the mayor’s concerns, emphasizing the importance of protecting both local residents and foreign nationals living in Angeles City. “The safety of our constituents and foreign nationals is our top priority,” she said. The city is determined to create a secure environment for everyone, including the foreign community, which contributes significantly to the city’s diversity and economy.
The ACPO is now under pressure to prioritize solving these robbery cases and provide a report within the given 48-hour window. Vega-Cabigting has made it clear that the police must act quickly to address the concerns of the community and restore public confidence in their safety.
Additionally, Vega-Cabigting called for an increase in police presence, particularly in areas with high foot traffic and around local businesses, to prevent further robberies and deter criminal activity. The presence of law enforcement is seen as a necessary measure to ensure the safety of all residents and visitors.
This order comes on the heels of another similar directive from Mayor Lazatin, who recently instructed the ACPO to resolve robberies near the Rafael Lazatin Memorial Medical Center (RLMMC), where employees, particularly nurses, and small businesses had been victimized. Vega-Cabigting assured the public that the city government would continue working to safeguard RLMMC staff and local businesses in the area.
Summary: Mayor Lazatin has given the ACPO 48 hours to solve a series of robberies targeting Korean nationals in Angeles City. The city government prioritizes the safety of both residents and foreign nationals, with additional measures in place to ensure public security.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
