PRO-NIR probes killing of Negros Oriental village chief

BACOLOD CITY — Police Brig. Gen. Rudecindo Reales, director of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), has ordered the activation of a Special Investigation Task Group to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive investigation into the killing of an incumbent barangay captain in Barangay Kansumandig, La Libertad, Negros Oriental, on Wednesday.

According to the regional police office, the victim was riding a motorcycle from Barangay Pacuan toward his home in Barangay Kansumandig when nearby residents reportedly heard several gunshots.

The victim was later found lying wounded along the road and was declared dead at the scene, police said.

Recovered from the scene were three spent shells and four slugs from a .45-caliber firearm, as well as a cellphone, which were secured as part of the ongoing investigation.

Reales proceeded to the area to supervise the police response and investigation.

He directed concerned units to immediately pursue all available leads and ensure the proper preservation and processing of the crime scene.

PRO-NIR assured the public that all available investigative resources are being used to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and identify those responsible.

Authorities urged anyone who witnessed the incident or has relevant information to coordinate with police or the investigating team.

Police are also reviewing possible closed-circuit television footage that may help establish the movements of the victim and the perpetrators before and after the incident.

Reales assumed command of PRO-NIR on Sept. 7, 2026, succeeding Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño as part of a Philippine National Police leadership reshuffle.

The identities of the suspects and the motive for the killing remain under investigation.