A former barangay captain and vice mayoral candidate for the 2025 elections was shot dead inside his home in Tantangan, South Cotabato.
The incident occurred in Barangay Bukay Pait on the night of November 17, 2024.
Tantangan Police Chief, Pol. Maj. Erika Vallejo, confirmed the fatal shooting in an interview with Bombo Radyo Koronadal.
The victim was identified as Jose “Bobot” Osario, 58, a former village chief and vice mayoral hopeful for the upcoming national and local elections.
Initial investigation revealed that the attack happened around 10:00 PM, but Osario’s body was only discovered at 6:00 AM.
Unidentified assailants reportedly broke into his home and shot him using an unconfirmed type of firearm.
Six shell casings were recovered at the crime scene.
Osario’s remains are currently at Rest Haven Funeral Homes in Barangay New Ilo-Ilo, Tantangan, pending a postmortem examination.
According to Elsie Osario, the victim’s wife, she attempted to call him around 12:56 AM when she noticed he was not beside her. She assumed he was preparing for their early morning coffee meeting and dismissed her worry.
A household cook found Osario’s body lying in the kitchen the following morning. Upon inspection, his limbs were already cold.
Elsie is appealing to the assailants for answers, struggling to comprehend her husband’s murder.
Tantangan PNP continues to investigate, working to identify the suspects and determine the motive.
Authorities urge anyone with information to come forward.