The killing of a government worker who spoke out against alleged irregularities in irrigation projects has ignited public outrage and renewed calls for stronger protection of truth-tellers within public institutions.
Niruh Kyle Antatico, a Juris Doctor graduate and employee of the National Irrigation Authority–Northern Mindanao (NIA-10), died after motorcycle-riding assailants shot him along the highway in Barangay Patag on Friday night, October 10.
Police investigators are looking into Antatico’s recent social media posts exposing possible anomalies in irrigation infrastructure as a possible motive for the attack.
First District Representative Lordan Suan urged law enforcers to act quickly and ensure a transparent and thorough investigation. He said the people behind the attack must face justice.
Meanwhile, Law professor Alfred Gaccion said Antatico’s courage continues to inspire those who believe in honesty and accountability.
Former Bukidnon board member and Indigenous Peoples representative Bagani Llesis also expressed confidence that justice would prevail and the culprits would be caught.
NIA-10 said it has started a comprehensive review and verification of the issues Antatico raised before his death, in coordination with relevant offices and authorities.
The agency noted that similar allegations had surfaced in the past but were already resolved. It reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in all operations.
The legal community and local officials continue to demand justice, describing Antatico’s death as a grim reminder of the dangers faced by government workers who dare to challenge corruption and stand by their principles.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.