Gunmen shoot at BuCor chief’s car on Skyway

March 20, 2024 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — Unidentified assailants shot at a vehicle owned by Bureau of Corrections chief Gregorio Catapang Jr. as it was on its way to pick up BuCor deputy chief Al Perreras in Quezon City.

According to the bureau, the assailants fired at Catapang’s Toyota Hilux as it was passing through the Skyway at around 6:30 a.m.

Catapang expressed belief that the real target was Perreras.

The BuCor chief told “Storycon” on Cignal TV’s One News that Perreras carried out many of his orders, and both of them have been receiving death threats from various sources since joining the bureau.

Catapang agreed with observations that the gunmen appeared to be professionals, who appeared to have tested the type of ammunition that could penetrate the bulletproof vehicle.

The Hilux was occupied by Corrections Officers 1 Cornelio Colalong, who was driving, and Leonardo Cabaniero.

The BuCor said the assailants, in a gray Toyota Vios, overtook the backup car, which was driven by two other security escorts, and opened fire.

The rear windshield was hit and shattered but the bullet was not able to penetrate the vehicle.

Neither Catapang nor Perreras was in the vehicle when the shooting took place.

However, the BuCor noted that the bullet’s trajectory was aimed toward the front passenger side, which is where Perreras typically sits.

Cabaniero, who was in the back seat, was unharmed.

The bureau said the assailants fled the scene via the Nagtahan exit of the Skyway.

Perreras declined to comment but directed his security team to report the attack to the local police authorities, the bureau said.

In a separate statement, the Department of Justice (DOJ) said it supports the BuCor against any attempt to intimidate its officials.

“We are fully behind the BuCor during this time. Acts of violence will not deter us; they only emphasize the need for our reforms,” the DOJ said.

“We are more committed than ever to ensure the safety of public servants and to pursue justice for such cowardly acts,” it added.