Ex-Mambusao Mayor Accused of Assaulting SB Candidate

By Felipe V. Celino

ROXAS CITY, Capiz – A former mayor of Mambusao, Capiz, is facing allegations of slapping and punching a candidate for Sangguniang Bayan (SB) in the upcoming midterm elections.

The complainant, Ludovico Kapunan, 56, a businessman and resident of Barangay Población Proper, Mambusao, reported to the Mambusao Municipal Police Station (MPS) that former Mayor Leodegario Labao Jr. allegedly slapped and punched him while he was helping his brother process a business permit and a mayor’s clearance at the municipal office.

The incident occurred around 1:40 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 27, when Labao reportedly assisted Kapunan in processing the business permit.

Kapunan claimed that Labao accused his brother of failing to pay taxes and insisted that his brother should personally process the required business permit.

An argument ensued, and Labao allegedly raised his voice before slapping and punching Kapunan when he defended his brother against the accusations.

Kapunan is also an incumbent barangay kagawad of Población Proper.

Meanwhile, municipal government employees refused to comment on the incident.

Attempts by Daily Guardian to obtain Labao’s statement were unsuccessful as of press time.

Labao is running for mayor of Mambusao, replacing his wife, Luzviminda Labao, the incumbent town mayor.

He previously ran for congressman in the 2nd District of Capiz in the last election but lost to Rep. Jane Castro, wife of Capiz Governor Fredenil “Oto” Castro.