Cebu lawyer dies of gunshot in Bukidnon

CEBU, Philippines - A 63-year-old Cebu-based lawyer succumbed to a gunshot wound, which he sustained while driving a sports utility vehicle at past 8 a.m. in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon.

Lawyer Pepito Calabria Suello, 63, a native of Loon, Bohol, was pronounced dead two hours after he was rushed to the Malaybalay Paramedic Hospital.

How Calabria sustained the gunshot baffled authorities as there was no entry hole in the car. They, however, found an exit hole on the door at the driver’s side.

Police Officer 3 Jeffrey Lloren of the Malaybalay City police said they have placed under custody and asked to submit to a paraffin test the lawyer who was with Suello in the car. This lawyer was riding at the passenger’s seat but reportedly claimed he was asleep at that time and was only awakened by the gunfire.

The FREEMAN is withholding the name of the other lawyer pending investigation.

Lloren said the incident happened at Block 1, Lot 20, NHA, Phase 1, in Barangay Casisang.

It was reportedly the residents in the area who sought for police assistance when they heard a burst of gunfire and saw the car come to halt, Suello subsequently slumping in his seat.

Police recovered a 380 caliber pistol with five live ammos and an empty shell inside the SUV. The items are now with the Scene of the Crime Operatives for examination.

As of yesterday, police could not ascertain Suello’s presence in the city.

In Cebu, lawyer Gonzalo Malig-on, president of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines - Cebu Province Chapter, could not help but express it seems lawyers are becoming a favorite target of killings.

"Sad day. It seems lawyers are becoming a favorite and vulnerable target," his text message reads.

Suello was a member of IBP-Cebu Province Chapter.

Malig-on shared Suello became popular in the legal circle for his notarial services near the Cebu City Hall.

"Previously known to many as having his notarial near City Hall. Not the type nga you would expect naay kontra," Malig-on said.

Lawyer Hidelito Pascual, president of IBP - Cebu Province Chapter, also said lawyering has become a very hazardous profession. — (FREEMAN)