NEGROS Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson is hoping that the reported killing of a political organizer in Hinoba-an town is not politically motivated.
"I just hope it's not," he said, adding that "in general, we would like to have apeaceful elections."
Members of Alpha Kappa Rho Fraternity (Akrho) Hinoba-an Local Council, in a press conference at the Negros Press Club Building in Bacolod City on Thursday, January 20, said they are seeking justice for its member, Ulysses "Isik" Mahinay, in front of his house in Barangay Culipapa in the southern Negros Occidental locality last January 6.
The perpetrators were allegedly on board a motorcycle, but their identities remain unknown yet.
Mahinay, who is Partido Asenso Barangay officer and a community organizer, reportedly died of a lone gunshot wound on his head.
Molave Candulizas, adviser of Akhro, also said that the victim was also receiving death threats, which he considered politically motivated.
They, however, would not reveal who they suspect to be responsible for the crime.
The mayoralty race in Hinoba-an is a four-cornered fight between Anthony "Daph" Reliquias (Partido Asenso), Oscar Daclan (Nationalist People's Coalition), Isabelo Caa (Independent) and Joel Lapore (National Unity Party).
Incumbent Mayor Ernesto Estrao (Partido Asenso), on the other hand, is running for vice mayor against incumbent Jeffrey Encoy (Nationalist People's Coalition).
Candulizas said no witnesses is strong enough to come out for Mahinay because of fear.