Man shot to death in Daanbantayan

CEBU, Philippines – A man was shot to death in the middle of a dance in the northern town of Daanbantayan dawn last Monday.

The fatality was identified as Renato Pepito, 55, while the suspects were identified only as "Bundoy" and "Kimboy" Gulfan. The incident occurred in sitio Sumimbang Sur, Barangay Bitoon.

Initial investigation revealed that Pepito was dancing with his friends when the suspects, who were reportedly under the influence of alcohol, approached him in an unruly manner.

Witnesses said the suspects spoke with Pepito, but after a while, Budoy pulled out a gun from his waist and shot Pepito. The victim fell on the ground, but Bundoy's younger brother, Kimby, also pulled out a gun and shot Pepito.

Pepito sustained two fatal wounds on his stomach. One of the bullets reportedly hit his lungs.

The two suspects fled the area right after. One of the brothers reportedly works at the Daanbantayan Municipal Hall.

Nicodemus Jabel, a doctor at the Daanbantayan District Hospital who was present at the dance at that time, tried to revive Pepito, but the victim already passed away.

SPO2 Erminio Marinduque said the victim and suspects were neighbors and were known to be friends. Police are conducting follow-up investigation to determine the motive of the killing and for the possible arrest of the suspects. (THE FREEMAN)