Ex-kagawad shot dead outside home in Manapla

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – A 54-year-old former barangay councilor, or kagawad, was shot dead outside his home in Hacienda Cabayao, Barangay San Pablo, Manapla, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday morning.

A report from the Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) showed that a man approached the residence of the victim, identified only as “Pablo,” under the pretense of looking for a missing carabao.

Witnesses said that when the victim stepped outside, he briefly spoke with the man, who then suddenly pulled out a firearm and shot him multiple times in the head and body, causing his death.

After the shooting, the assailant allegedly entered the victim’s house and threatened his family before fleeing toward a nearby mountainous area.

Authorities recovered 10 spent shells and a live round of .45-caliber ammunition from the scene.

Police Lt. Col. Joem Malong, PRO-NIR spokesperson, said a hot pursuit operation was launched immediately.

Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend the suspect, with coordination among various police units.

The motive behind the killing is still under investigation.

PRO-NIR assured the public that police are committed to ensuring the safety of the victim’s family and the community while pursuing justice.