An assistant election officer from Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, was shot dead in a targeted attack, with the Philippine National Police (PNP) now following persons of interest.
PLt. Gladys Novino, administrative officer of President Quirino PNP, confirmed the development in an interview with Bombo Radyo Koronadal.
The victim, identified as John Nico Allan Dionaldo Pandoy, was married and serving as Assistant COMELEC Officer of Isulan, Sultan Kudarat, residing in Purok Sampaguita, Brgy. Poblacion, President Quirino.
The shooting occurred at 4:18 p.m. along the National Highway, Purok Sampaguita, Poblacion, President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat.
Initial investigations revealed that Pandoy was on his Yamaha Mio Gear motorcycle, heading home, when two men riding another motorcycle followed him.
Upon reaching the area, the gunmen shot Pandoy with an unidentified firearm before quickly fleeing in their getaway vehicle towards Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur.
Pandoy was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead by the attending physician.
Authorities are gathering evidence to identify the perpetrators of the shooting and determine if the motive is work-related or personal.
PNP Region 12 spokesperson PMajor Rissa Hernaez assured the public that the police are prepared for any potential violence or election-related incidents, especially as elections approach.
The Isulan COMELEC condemned the incident, expressing concern over the safety of election officers.