MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez said Wednesday he paid his respects at the wake of Mauricio “Morie” Pulhin, the Technical Staff Chief of the House Committee on Ways and Means who was shot dead by unidentified gunmen during his child’s birthday celebration over the weekend.

Romualdez extended his condolences to Pulhin’s family at Loyola Memorial Chapels in Commonwealth, Quezon City, and assured his widow of the House of Representatives’ full institutional support in seeking justice.

“Morie was a quiet, hardworking professional—someone who served the House with diligence and loyalty. The manner of his death was senseless and deeply disturbing,” Romualdez said. “We will not stop until the perpetrators—and those who may be behind them—are identified and held accountable.”

During the visit, Romualdez was briefed by Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Officer-in-Charge Col. Randy Glenn G. Silvio and Batasan Police Station 6 Commander Lt. Col. Romil C. Avenido. Police said a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to handle the case.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage, conducting forensic analysis, and interviewing witnesses. Investigators are looking into all possible motives, including personal and work-related angles.

“I commend the efforts of QCPD and the officers involved in the early stages of the investigation,” Romualdez said. “But I urge our law enforcement agencies to move with even greater urgency. Justice delayed is justice denied.”

The Speaker also appealed to the public to report any information that may help identify the suspects.

“This crime struck at the heart of the institution. It will not be swept aside,” Romualdez said. “We will pursue justice—for Morie, for his family, and for every public servant who deserves to feel safe in the line of duty.”