Martinez backer killed

CEBU, Philippines - A former councilor of the northern town of Sta. Fe in Bantayan Island was shot dead last Sunday by a still unidentified assailant.

The victim, Prosbito Batiancela, 56, was reportedly a leader of the supporters of the Martinezes in the fourth district.

Police are eyeing politics as the motive of the incident, but Cebu Provincial Police Director Erson Digal said they could not tell whether or not the shooting has something to do with the upcoming elections.

Digal said it is also possible that Batiancela had other adversaries outside the political circle.

Batiancela, a resident of barangay Marikaban in Sta. Fe, died on the spot after a bullet pierced his head.

SPO1 Antonio Illut of the Sta. Fe police said Batiancela was at the house of his relative when the victim was shot from behind. A child witness reportedly saw a man with a helmet fleeing the area on board a red motorcycle shortly after the incident.

Batiancela’s brother, Prospero, confirmed that the victim was a known supporter of the Martinezes.

Digal, meanwhile, said there is no reason to place Sta. Fe under Commission of Elections control because of the incident. — Jessica Ann R. Pareja/JMO   (FREEMAN NEWS)