Iloilo town mayor beefs up security

ILOILO CITY , Philippines  --- Following reports of alleged threats on his life, Mayor Alex Centena of Calinog town in Iloilo has been taking precautions to foil the reported assassination plot.

"When you're in politics, getting death threats is normal. But we should not be complacent about it," he said.

As a precaution, Centena said he asked for an area security every time he is on official business around town. He also tapped village watchmen relative to his security.

Although his movement is a bit restricted, the mayor said "it's better safe than sorry."

While others contended that Centena may just be over-reacting, he insisted that the death threat on him is real, and was relayed to him by Insp. Aron Palomo, Calinog Police Station chief.

Palomo reportedly got the information linking the plot to a political killing on April 14, 2010 at Brgy. Igcalaga of this town.

A certain Lenie Leysa, 52, who was allegedly a bodyguard of a mayoralty candidate, was killed by still unknown assailants although it was reportedly owned up by the New People's Army due to his alleged failure to pay for a permit to campaign.

There were however insinuations, received by the police, that some people linked to Leysa and his politician-boss, Salvador Divinagracia Jr., may be out to exact revenge against Centena. (FREEMAN)