The US Embassy in the Philippines denounced Monday the recent murder of the husband of an American diplomat and called for an early resolution of the case.

In a statement, the embassy said it condemns last Saturday's violent attack that led to the death of a member of the US Mission to the Philippines.

The victim was identified as George Anico, spouse of a US Embassy staff member and a father of three.

"We appreciate the close cooperation of the Philippine authorities in a careful and speedy investigation and prosecution of this crime, so that the perpetrators may be brought to justice, " the embassy said in a statement.

The Philippine Foreign Affairs Department said the incident is an "isolated case" and assured there's no reason for foreign diplomats in the country to feel unsafe.

"It's a very sad incident but we think it is an isolated incident and it is not focused or targeted towards the status and function of certain people," Foreign Affairs Spokesman Raul Hernandez said in a briefing.

Four men allegedly stabbed Anico following an argument outside the gate of Bel-Air Village in Makati City.

Anico reportedly had an argument with suspects Crispec dela Paz, Juan Abastillas, Galicano Datu III, and Ospic Caburay, 27. The four are already in police custody.

Witnesses said the victim allegedly tapped the suspects' sport- utility vehicle, prompting the four to come out of the car and confront him.