Former barangay chairman shot dead by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Tanauan City

TANAUAN CITY, Batangas — A former barangay chairman in Tanauan City, Batangas was shot dead by motorcycle-riding gunmen along a provincial road in Barangay Talaga on Friday afternoon, police said.

The victim, identified as 66-year-old Emeterio Awitan, former chairman of Barangay Bañadero, was traveling on his motorcycle toward the city proper when the attack occurred at around 5:16 p.m., according to Tanauan City police chief PLtCol. Caesar Ian Binucal.

Police said the suspects used a .45-caliber firearm in the shooting.

Awitan was rushed to Tanauan Medical Center, where he was declared dead on arrival.

Based on CCTV footage obtained by investigators, the victim was seen traveling along the provincial road while being followed by the suspects. However, the actual shooting was not captured on camera.

In another CCTV recording taken after the attack, the suspects were seen fleeing the scene. The alleged gunman had removed his jacket by then, investigators said.

Police described the motorcycle driver as wearing a black jacket and blue pants. The alleged gunman, who was riding as a back-rider, was wearing a white T-shirt, a red jacket, blue pants and white shoes.

Authorities are investigating several possible motives, including an alleged fistfight involving the victim and a fellow city hall employee, as well as possible political or work-related disputes.