In an alarming incident this morning in Quezon City, the backup vehicle of Bureau of Corrections Director General Gregorio Pio P. Catapang Jr., which was lent to Deputy Director General for Administration Atty. Al Perreras, was fired upon by unknown assailants.

The targeted vehicle, a Toyota Hilux, was under the temporary command of Atty. Perreras at the time of the attack.

The incident occurred at around 6:30 AM along the Skyway, when the bulletproof Hilux, piloted by security escort CO1 Cornelio Colalong and accompanied by CO1 Leonardo Cabaniero, was en route to collect Atty. Perreras.

Reports indicate that an unidentified gray Toyota Vios aggressively overtook the backup car, operated by CSO2 Edwin Berroya and CO2 Michael Magsanoc, and proceeded to open fire.

Despite the rear windshield being struck and shattered, the bulletproof glass successfully prevented penetration.

Notably, the bullet’s trajectory aimed towards the front passenger side, which is typically occupied by Perreras. Miraculously, Cabaniero, positioned in the rear seat, escaped unharmed.

The assailants immediately fled the scene via the Nagtahan exit of the Skyway.

Atty. Perreras has directed his security team to formally report the attack to the local police authorities.

Director General Catapang revealed that both he and Deputy Director Perreras have been the subjects of death threats following the initiation of several reforms within the Bureau. Despite this brazen act of violence, Catapang affirmed their unwavering commitment to persevere with the transformative agenda they have set forth.

The Bureau of Corrections and the Department of Justice stand united against any attempts to intimidate or deter their leadership and remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of their personnel and the public.

"We are fully behind the Bureau of Corrections during this time. Acts of violence will not deter us; they only emphasize the need for our reforms. We are more committed than ever to ensure the safety of public servants and to pursue justice for such cowardly acts.