The National Federation of Employees’ Associations of the Department and Agencies in Agriculture (Nafeda-Courage) and the Confederation for Unity, Recognition, and Advancement of Government Employees (Courage) expressed their condolences and demanded justice for the brutal killing of Niruh Kyle Antatico on October 10 in Barangay Patag, Cagayan de Oro City. Two men riding-in-tandem shot Antatico while he was inside his vehicle.

Antatico was a former National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Region 10 senior legal researcher who reportedly exposed rampant corruption and irregularities within the agency, including missing funds, substandard projects, and fake contracts. Since 2024, Antatico had been receiving death threats for his disclosures.

According to Nafeda-Courage, the killing is a heinous crime against a public servant who bravely fulfilled his duty to defend the truth and the welfare of farmers. “His death is a clear attack againts integrity, honesty, and justice that public service should have been upholding,” the group said.

The group added that Antatico’s death was not only a tragedy for his family but also a deep wound among employees in the agriculture sector. The union called for an immediate and thorough investigation into Antatico’s killing and to hold accountable all those responsible.

“We must overcome fear and injustice,” the group stated. For them, every day that passes without justice brings more pain to the victim’s family and to all public servants who strive faithfully.

The Courage national office firmly hopes that government employees will not be silenced or intimidated by this brutal violence against Antatico. “They should instead be further emboldened to expose the widespread corruption in our offices,” it said.

Nafeda-Courage’s call: “Niruh Kyle Antatico’s sacrifice must not be in vain.”