Another barangay official gunned down in Albay

Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 29) — Another barangay official in Albay was gunned down a few hours after filing his certificate of candidacy in Libon town.

The Bicol Police Regional Office said Alex Repato, 51, was shot dead in front of his house past 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 28.

The reelectionist barangay chief earlier went to the local office of the Commission on Elections to file his candidacy.

Authorities said hot pursuit operations are ongoing.

READ: Culture of impunity: Attacks on local officials in first year of Marcos admin

Congressman's appeal

Albay 3rd District Rep. Fernando "Didi" Cabredo, meanwhile, appealed to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intervene and investigate the killings in Libon town.

"We implore you, as the protector of the Filipino people, to prioritize an urgent investigation and restore peace in Libon," Cabredo read.

"Our last resort is to seek your attention, recognizing your authority to bring an end to this violence. We urge your prompt action to ensure the safety and security of the people in Libon," he added.

The attack on Repato was the fourth against a barangay official in Libon after Barangay Kagawad Reliosa Mata (Nogpo), Barangay Captain Oscar Maronilla (San Pascual), and Barangay Kagawad Salvador Olivares (Bariw).

Data obtained by CNN Philippines from the Commission on Human Rights showed there were 34 cases of attacks on elected officials, and 38 deaths from June 2022 to June 2023.

The agency said these figures do not reflect the total number of alleged killings of local officials under investigation and monitored by law enforcement.

Bicol-based journalist Rosas Olarte contributed to this story.