Nueva Ecija mayor shot in an ambush

July 3, 2018

A mayor in a Nueva Ecija town was shot in an ambush Tuesday afternoon, but an official said he is not in the government's list of politicians involved in illegal drugs.

In a text message to the Daily Manila Shimbun, Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Oscar Albayalde identified the victim as Gen Tinio Mayor Ferdinand Bote, 57, a resident of Brgy San Pedro Poblacion.

Bote is the second mayor killed in as many days. On Monday, Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili was shot during a flag-raising ceremony.

Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA) Director General Aaron Aquino said Bote is not the government's narco-list.

Albayalde said based on initial report the victim was onboard his vehicle when a motorcycle riding suspect shot him using a short firearm in the vicinity of Maharlika Highway in Brgy. Imelda, Cabanatuan City around 4:30 pm.

He said the suspect fled after the incident while Bote was rushed to a hospital.

"He (Bote) was rushed at MV Gallego Hospital but declared dead on arrival by attending physician while the suspect/s immediately fled towards east," he said.

Alabayalde said Cabanatuan City police immediately conducted dragnet operation to apprehend the suspect.

In a statement, the Office of the Presidential Spokesperson  condoled with the family of Bote. "We assure everyone that we would discharge the state obligation for every murder. We will spare no effort in getting to the bottom of this latest violent crime."

"We are confident that PNP chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde would be able to conduct a fair and thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice," it added. Robina Asido/DMS