Fil-Am leaders condemn Trump assassination attempt

NEW YORK CITY - Filipino American politicians collectively condemned the assassination attempt against former US President Donald Trump which resulted in the deaths of the gunman and one of his supporters.

Among those who condemned the attack is the Filipino American Democratic Club of New York.

"The Filipino American Democratic Club of New York (FADCNY) strongly condemns the act of violence that took place against former President Trump. It is disappointing that politics today has been viewed through an extreme and polarized lens by many. Politics is integral to the democratic process that should be founded on productive and respectable debate and discussion. FADCNY vows to be an exemplification of those values," said the group's president, Enzo Manzano to GMA News Online. 

The Filipino American Mayor of Bergenfield, New Jersey, Arvin Amotorio also expressed sadness over the incident.

"The recent assassination attempt on former President Trump is a sobering reminder of the dangers inherent in extreme rhetoric and violence. As Mayor of Bergenfield, I unequivocally condemn this act and genuinely hope that we all commit to peaceful and respectful dialogue," said Amotorio.

"Our community's strength lies in our ability to engage with one another civilly and constructively. I am just glad the former President is safe now," he added.

National Federation of Filipino American Associations Director of Public Policy Clifford Robin Temprosa, meanwhile, stated that senseless violence has no place in a democratic country and causes division.

"Democracy must be built by dignity and enshrined with integrity. Our society must neither fall victim to nor perpetuate acts of senseless violence which will only further divide our people and deteriorate our humanity," expressed Temprosa.

There is growing concern over the increase in political violence following the assassination attempt on Trump,  leading to heightened security measures in New York City where the former president resides.

According to New York City Mayor Eric Adams, "Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD is deploying additional personnel across the five boroughs of New York City related to Trump."

"Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD is surging officers to Trump Tower and other sites related to the former president across the five boroughs.” —VAL, GMA Integrated News