TACLOBAN CITY (Updated) -- Former mayor Ananias Rebato of San Jose de Buan in Samar and his bodyguard were shot by still unknown assailants around 1 a.m. Monday, October 8.

The bodyguard, identified as Severino Tesoro Jr., 24, died, while Rebato remained in critical condition.

Initial reports said the attack happened in Barangay Babaclayon while Rebato and Tesoro were onboard a vehicle on their way home after attending a fiesta celebration in the village.

Tesoro, before he died, was able to return fire, killing one of the four gunmen.

Rebato was rushed to a hospital in Tacloban City and remained in critical condition as of 9 a.m. Monday.

Police are conducting hot pursuit operation against the three remaining gunmen. (SunStar Philippines)