Self-confessed drug lord Rolan “Kerwin” Espinosa was shot on Thursday, April 10, 2025, while delivering a campaign speech in Barangay Tinag-an, Albuera, Leyte.
The incident was confirmed by Albuera councilor aspirant Carl Kevin Batistis.
According to information obtained by Bombo Radyo Tacloban, Espinosa’s full campaign slate had gathered with local residents inside a covered court when the shooting occurred.
Espinosa and a minor who was caught in the crossfire were immediately rushed to Ormoc Doctor Hospital for medical treatment.
The Albuera Municipal Police are currently at the crime scene and have launched a full investigation and hot pursuit operation against the suspects.
Espinosa recently declared his candidacy for mayor under the Bando Espinosa-Pundok Kausaban (BE-PK) party, challenging incumbent Mayor Sixto Dela Victoria.
His entry into politics came after he was released from prison when the Regional Trial Court in Baybay City dismissed the case against him due to lack of evidence.
Espinosa gained national notoriety in 2016 when then-President Rodrigo Duterte linked him to the illegal drug trade in Eastern Visayas.
He and his father, the late Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr., were accused of involvement in narcotics trafficking after authorities discovered ₱11 million worth of shabu near their residence during a police raid.
Rolando Espinosa Sr. surrendered in mid-2016 but was later killed inside his cell at Baybay City Jail under controversial circumstances.