Former Barangay Official Shot Dead Outside Home
A former barangay official was fatally shot outside his residence in Manapla, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday, sources said. The tragic incident has raised concerns about local security and political violence in the area.
The victim, identified as 54-year-old Pablo Brillantes, served as a barangay kagawad of Barangay San Pablo. According to police reports, an unknown assailant approached Brillantes’ home under the pretense of searching for a lost carabao. The gunman then opened fire, hitting Brillantes multiple times before entering the house to threaten his family and fleeing the scene.
Details of the Shooting and Investigation
Authorities recovered at least ten spent shells and one live round from a .45 caliber pistol at the crime scene. Community members noted the swift response from local law enforcement, who began an immediate investigation into the killing.
Later that evening, a statement from the Roselyn Jean Pelle Command of the New People’s Army (NPA) claimed responsibility for the killing. The group accused Brillantes of acting as an intelligence asset for the 79th Infantry Brigade and alleged he was involved in the public exposure of four of their fighters in 2021.
The NPA further claimed to have confiscated a .45 caliber pistol, ammunition, and a handheld radio from Brillantes’ possession, according to local officials.
Authorities Condemn Killing and Ongoing Probe
The Police Regional Office of Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) condemned the killing, describing Brillantes as a “peace-loving individual with no derogatory record.” Officials reported that investigators have identified suspects believed to be members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).
Authorities believe the shooting was motivated by Brillantes’ alleged role as a military informant, intensifying concerns over the ongoing conflict in the region. Police have stated that formal charges will be filed once post-mortem and ballistic examination results are finalized.
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