"Politicians should set aside their political differences, and give peace and prosperity to our long suffering people," he added.

Pacheco issued his remarks before the effectivity of the election firearms ban on January 14, 2007, the start of the election period. He also lamented the death of Adolfo Ortega, bodyguard of the slain congressman, and the injury to an unnamed watch- your-car boy who was hit by a stray bullet in the attack.

"These needless shootings are an abomination; they are completely contrary to all the Christian values that we so cherish, especially at this time of year."

Pacheco said the gun ban law should include a stiff penalty for its violation (reclusion temporal — 12 years to 20 years) with no pardon or parole, and a ban on tinted windows on motor vehicles whether public or private for the common good.

"Only police officers, or military personnel, or licensed private security guards who are authorized, in uniform and on duty, should be allowed to carry guns in public places. There should be no more exemptions, otherwise, the gun ban becomes a farce," he said.

Accredited by the Commission on Elections on May 8, 2004, Ang Kapatiran promotes a platform-based politics, which includes a multi-dimensional approach to peace and order and a "respect life" attitude in society as a precondition to a consistent ethic of life.

"Even though these peace and order measures are part of Ang Kapatiran’s multi-dimensional approach to peace and order, we think the President and the present Congress should implement them immediately to save lives," Pacheco said.

The Filipino people are appealing to Madam President Arroyo, Senate President Villar, and Speaker de Venecia to set the example and get the guns off the streets, he said.

Under the Philippine Constitution, the first and primary duty of the government is the maintenance of peace and public order, to keep everyone safe from crime.