Ex-barangay chief, son slain in Leyte attack

TACLOBAN, Philippines — A former barangay chairman and his seven-year-old son were killed in an ambush in Villaba, Leyte on Monday afternon.

Danilo Mates, 57, of Barangay Casilion died at the scene from 17 gunshot wounds in the head and body, according to a report of the Villaba police.

Mates’ son was declared dead on arrival at the Gatchalian Hospital due to a gunshot wound in the abdomen. His wife, Marivic, survived with minor injuries.

Reports said the victims were on a motorcycle on their way to a farm located outside the village when the assailant, who was on another motorcycle, waylaid them at around 5:10 p.m.

Probers expressed belief that Mates was the target of the attack.

Mates was reportedly a barangay leader of a former congressman.

Authorities expressed belief that the attack could be related to an earlier shooting incident that killed a bodyguard of a supporter of the congressman.

Meanwhile, in Cotabato City, a man was killed while his wife and son were wounded in an attack  on Tuesday.

Rahim Arsad died at the scene, while his wife and son were taken to a hospital for treatment.

The victim and his family were on a motorcycle when the assailants waylaid them in Barangay Tamontaka.

Probers expressed belief that Arsad was the target of the attack.