Armed men abduct party-list nominee and former Alex Boncayao Brigade leader

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Magsasaka party-list nominee Lejun Dela Cruz is a son of Nilo Dela Cruz, former commander of the Alex Boncayao Brigade hit squad

MANILA, Philippines – Armed men abducted on Sunday, February 2, a former communist guerrilla and current nominee of the Magsasaka party-list in the May elections, a statement from the party said.

Men aboard two motorcycles opened fire at a car carrying Lejun Dela Cruz at around 11 am on Sunday somewhere in Cainta, Rizal. Dela Cruz was able to flee the scene but was eventually chased by the same men, according to Magsaksaka secretary-general General Du. 

The party said it has lost contact with him.

Dela Cruz is a son of Nilo Dela Cruz, former commander of the Alex Boncayao Brigade (ABB) communist hit squad. Lejun had also served in the ABB leadership until he returned to the fold of the law more than two decades ago.

Dela Cruz is the third nominee of Magsasaka.

Magsasaka called on authorities and human rights groups to “take action to locate and secure him.”

“Magsasaka Partylist strongly condemns this brazen and deplorable act,” the party said. “This not only endangers the life and safety of Lejun but also instills fear among those who seek to serve the people through legitimate and democratic means.“ – Rappler.com