By Eva Visperas
The Abono Partylist is offering a reward of P1.5 million for information leading to the identification and arrest of the mastermind and gunmen behind the murder of Umingan Municipal Councilor Ponciano “Onyok” Onia Jr.
Onia, 59, who was also the president of the Abono Partylist in Pangasinan, was gunned down on December 7, 2024, in Barangay Lubong, Umingan, Pangasinan.
According to Engr. Rosendo So, the founding chairman of Abono Partylist based in Pangasinan, the reward aims to aid in bringing justice to Onia’s tragic death. The councilor was ambushed while driving his Toyota Fortuner with two employees, Ar-Jhay Roldan Molina and Mark John Dagul Nava, around 7:30 p.m. on December 7.
The suspects, riding a black Honda Click motorcycle, opened fire as the vehicle reached an intersection near the provincial road.
Engr. So stated that P1 million would be awarded for the identification and arrest of the mastermind, while P500,000 would be given for the capture of the gunmen. He emphasized that the reward is part of the party’s efforts to ensure accountability and justice for Onia’s untimely death.
In a statement written in Filipino, the Abono Partylist expressed their deep sorrow over the loss of their leader, describing his death as a “tragic and senseless act.” The group vowed to continue advocating for the causes Onia passionately championed, including issues affecting farmers, workers, and rural communities.
“We stand with you in mourning the untimely loss of our ABONO National President, Onyok Onia. His life was senselessly cut short, and this is a huge loss for our community and our country. In his passing, we are reminded that darkness continues to try to extinguish the light of hope and progress,” the statement read.
It added that the killing of Councilor Onia has shocked the local community, where he was known not only for his leadership but also for his dedication to advocating for farmers and laborers.
“We will not be swayed by the darkness. We will continue to honor the memory of Councilor Onyok, who tirelessly fought for the rights of farmers and workers. Our service will never stop, and we will continue to champion our advocacies in Food Production & Security, Health, and Education,” it said.
The statement concluded with a call for collective action against the ongoing violence that has claimed many lives. Abono Partylist urged the public to unite and work together toward a more peaceful society.
“Habang tayo ay nagluluksa sa ating kawalan, hawak-kamay po tayong kumilos laban sa walang patid na mga akto ng karahasan na kumitil sa napakaraming buhay. Tayo po ay magtulungan upang lumikha ng isang mas mapayapang lipunan,” the statement concluded.
Police authorities have established a Special Investigation Task Group to resolve Onia’s killing and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Meanwhile, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan ng Pangasinan (Provincial Board) condemned the killing of Onia during its session on December 9, where the members observed a moment of silence to mourn the councilor’s death.
Pangasinan Vice Governor and Presiding Officer Mark Ronald Lambino expressed his deep sadness over Onia’s tragic death, highlighting that the slain councilor’s only desire was to serve the public. Vice Governor Lambino also called on the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to unite in condemning violence, including the senseless killing of Onia.
Lambino also urged the police to expedite the investigation into the murder and ensure that those responsible for the killing of Councilor Onia would be brought to justice.
“We stand united in condemning the senseless killing of Councilor Onyok Onia, who only wanted to serve the people. I also call on the authorities to quickly resolve this case and bring the perpetrators to justice,”Lambino said.
First District Board Member Carolyn Dizon-Sison also sponsored a resolution expressing the Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s condolences to the bereaved family and condemning Onia’s killing.
In a related development, Gilbert Estrella also expressed condolences and condemnation over the killing of Onia.
Estrella, son of Department of Agrarian Reform Secretary Conrado Estrella III, one of the strongest pillars of Abono Partylist, said in a statement: “We are deeply saddened by the sudden and painful loss of Municipal Councilor and National President of ABONO Party-list, Hon. Ponciano ‘Onyok’ V. Onia Jr. His life was taken in a manner that profoundly hurts the hearts of each and every one of us. No words can truly express the sorrow and grief we feel over the loss of someone who wholeheartedly served his community.”
It added, “We are truly grateful for all the years of his service and compassion. His contributions as a public servant, dedicated to the welfare of others, will remain in our memories”.
“To the family of Manong Onyok and the people of Umingan, the entire 6th District stands with you in your mourning. We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers. May we find strength and unity in this time of sorrow, as we remember his beautiful legacy,” the statement concluded.