Suspect sa pamamaril ng supporters ng incumbent mayor sa Silay City sa Negros Occidental, sumuko na

- Arnie Benedicto, the Barangay Captain of Lantad, Silay City and the primary suspect in the fatal shooting of the supporters of the incumbent mayor of the said city, has surrendered to the authorities

- It can be recalled that early on Monday, May 12, 2025, news about the fatal shooting that resulted in two deaths and seven injuries spread like wildfire online

- The shooting incident is claimed to be linked to alleged vote buying monitoring activities

- Witnesses say the violence erupted after Benedicto reportedly fired upon volunteers of “Team Ugyon” who were monitoring alleged vote-buying activities outside a property associated with “Team Asenso”

Arnie Benedicto, the Barangay Captain of Lantad in Silay City, Negros Occidental, who was identified as the primary suspect in a shooting incident in Barangay Mambulac on election day, has surrendered to the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office.

Benedicto voluntarily turned himself in to the provincial police headquarters following the violent episode that occurred earlier in the day.

Initial reports indicate that Benedicto was seen entering a private property allegedly utilized by candidates and supporters of “Team Asenso.”

Shortly after exiting the premises, he reportedly opened fire on a group of individuals standing outside.

These individuals were identified as volunteers of “Team Ugyon,” who were reportedly monitoring alleged vote-buying activities in the area.

The tragic incident resulted in the confirmed deaths of two individuals. They have been identified as Albert Salimbot, of legal age and a resident of Hda. Macamig Pulo, Barangay E. Lopez, and Ronnie Piedad, 45 years old, a resident of Zone 7, Purok Ipil-Ipil, Barangay Mambulac.

Seven other individuals sustained injuries during the shooting. They have been identified as Ruel Espinosa, 42 years old, residing in Purok Highway, Zone 15, Talisay City; Ric Ortillano, 46 years old, a resident of Hofileña Subdivision, Barangay Mambulac; Wilfredo Cuello, 46 years old, residing in PLDT Baybay, Barangay Mambulac; Jason Belleza, of legal age and a resident of Yolanda Housing, Barangay E. Lopez; Joey Pomares, a resident of Barangay Mambulac; Glenn Gutierrez, 49 years old, residing in Cabay Bodega, Barangay Guinhalaran; and one other individual whose identity has yet to be officially released.

Law enforcement authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the shooting incident to ascertain the full circumstances and motives behind the attack.

The surrender of Barangay Captain Benedicto is a significant development in the ongoing inquiry. Police are expected to conduct further interviews with the suspect and gather more evidence from the crime scene and witnesses to establish a clear sequence of events.

The election day violence in Silay City has raised concerns about the security and orderliness of the electoral process in the area.

Local authorities are working to ensure the safety and security of the community as the investigation progresses.

The incident underscores the tensions that can arise during election periods and the importance of maintaining peace and order.

The Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office has confirmed the surrender and stated that they are committed to a fair and comprehensive investigation to bring justice to the victims and their families.

Further updates on the investigation are expected as more details become available. The focus remains on gathering factual information and avoiding any speculation or personal opinions regarding the incident and the individuals involved.

The community awaits the outcome of the investigation with the hope that it will shed light on the tragic events and prevent similar incidents in the future.

News, photos or videos that arouse the interest of netizens would often go viral on social media, due to the attention netizens give them. These viral posts appeal to the emotions of netizens, and in rare cases, such could also happen to ordinary people, making them very relatable.

In other election news, a 65-year-old man, Nestor Rensales, died after voting in Oas, Albay during the midterm elections. Rensales, a stroke survivor, felt dizzy and collapsed shortly after casting his vote at Oas South Central Elementary School, ABS-CBN reported. His wife shared that he insisted on voting despite the heat and early crowd, believing his vote still mattered. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Still in other news, former Senator and 2025 senatorial candidate Bam Aquino joined the long queue of regular voters on election day, Monday, May 12, 2025. He was seen patiently waiting in line with nearly a hundred other voters at his Tarlac polling precinct, which for some is a display of humility and adherence to democratic processes. His act garnered significant attention, with numerous users expressing admiration and support, emphasizing his simplicity and respect for the law. Online comments revealed a strong public desire for leaders who are seen as relatable and respectful of the democratic process, with many expressing hopes for Aquino's electoral success.

Source: KAMI.com.gh