Cops probe hired gun behind Bacolod businessman slay

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) is investigating the possibility that a hired gunman was behind the killing of a businessman here on Tuesday.

Police Capt. Francis Depasucat, chief of Police Station 1, said the gunman, one of three persons of interest, has already been identified by witnesses.

Depasucat said the suspect had previous cases of attempted homicide and illegal possession of firearms and may have posted bail for his temporary release.

He added that the attack appeared “well planned,” noting that the victim was shot from behind in what he called a “treacherous” manner.

The victim, identified as 52-year-old Romy, was shot in the back of the head in broad daylight while opening his hardware store near a public market in Barangay 12.

Depasucat said Romy had just exited his vehicle, while a companion remained in the car when the shooting occurred.

The victim died an hour later at a private hospital.

A ballistic examination revealed that a special type of bullet was used in the attack, according to Depasucat.

While business-related or personal grudges are being considered as possible motives, Depasucat said investigators are exploring all angles.

He clarified that the victim was not a contractor, as earlier reported, but a supplier and an engineer by profession who managed a family-owned business.

Despite progress in the investigation, Depasucat said police are still working to establish the true motive and identify the mastermind.

He said murder charges may be filed once sufficient evidence is gathered.

Local business leader Frank Carbon said the business community is waiting for the BCPO’s official report before issuing any statement.

Carbon cautioned the public against speculation, noting that the killing was a “very brazen act” committed in broad daylight.

Meanwhile, the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) assured the public that the situation remains under control.

The regional office said all necessary security measures are in place to prevent further incidents.

Police units across the city have been alerted, and pursuit operations are underway to identify and apprehend the suspect.

Coordination with other law enforcement agencies is ongoing.

“We assure the Bacolodnons and the entire Negros Island Region that your police are on top of the situation,” said Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, PRO-NIR director.

He said the case is being thoroughly investigated, and efforts are focused on securing swift justice for the victim while ensuring peace in the city.

The public is urged to remain calm and vigilant and to report any information that may aid in resolving the case.