Investigation underway after candidate in barangay polls was shot

By Nimfa Estrellado Ruben Ilagan in the hospital after the attack, receiving medical treatment for his injuries. (Photo from Ruben Ilagan/FA...

By Nimfa Estrellado

Ruben Ilagan in the hospital after the attack, receiving medical treatment for his injuries. (Photo from Ruben Ilagan/FACEBOOK)

GENERAL LUNA, Quezon - An investigation is underway after a candidate in barangay polls was shot on October 26, 2023 and received a bullet wound in the right chest. The incident occurred after a campaign rally in the local community, leaving the candidate in critical condition.

Based on the report, the victim, Ruben Ilagan, 63, married and currently running for barangay captain in Sitio Central 1, Brgy. Malaya, General Luna, Quezon were attacked by two armed men after attending a campaign rally for the upcoming barangay polls at Barangay Hall.



The assailants quickly fled in an unknown direction. The police conducted a manhunt operation to nab them. The condition of the victim is being observed at the hospital, while the motive for the crime is also being investigated.

The motive behind the attack is still unknown, but authorities are conducting an investigation to apprehend the perpetrators and ensure justice for Ilagan. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of political candidates and their supporters during election campaigns. Local authorities have been urged to enhance security measures to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.

Meanwhile, General Luna Mayor Matt Florido strongly condemned the incident and said that there is no room for any kind of violence, especially now that BSKE 2023 is approaching.

He called on the police to fast-track the investigation into the incident to hold those responsible for this accountable and ensure that justice is served.

Florido emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful and democratic electoral process, urging all candidates and their supporters to engage in healthy debates and discussions rather than resorting to violence.

He also urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities, fostering a sense of safety and security for everyone involved in the upcoming elections.