Ibajay, Aklan Vice Mayor Estolloso shot dead by Sangguniang Bayan member

MANILA, Philippines — Ibajay, Aklan Vice Mayor Julio Estolloso died on Friday, August 8, after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds. He was shot inside his own office by a member of the Sangguniang Bayan, according to police reports.

Ibajay Aklan Municipal Police Chief Rajiv Salbino told reporters the suspect, Mihrel Senatin, has been arrested at his residence shortly after the incident. 

Salbino said the incident in the Sangguniang Bayan office began when Senatin asked staff for a copy of all ordinances passed in Ibajay during his term. He then approached Estolloso, asked what his fault was, before pulling out a firearm and shooting the vice mayor on his left chest.

"While inside the SB office, the suspect asked for a copy of all ordinances of Ibajay during his term to the staff doon po sa office. And then the suspect approached the victim while asking , to quote, 'Vice, anu ang saea kimu?' Ibig sabihin po, 'Vice, anong kasalanan ko sayo?'" the municipality's police chief said.

(While inside the SB office, the suspect asked the staff there for a copy of all ordinances of Ibajay during his term. And then the suspect approached the victim while asking, to quote, “Vice, anu ang saea kimu?” This means, “Vice, what is my fault?”)

"And then without apparent reason, he drew his firearm and shot the victim, hitting him on the left chest," he added. 

Estolloso was rushed to Ibajay District Hospital for treatment, but was pronounced dead at 10:23 a.m. by the attending physician.

Salbino said Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) are still processing the crime scene. Police have also requested an autopsy and are verifying with authorities whether the suspect is licensed to carry firearms.

Senatin's motive for shooting the vice mayor has yet to be determined.

Estolloso's grandson, George Estolloso, also confirmed the vice mayor's death in a Facebook post.

"A beautiful life, lived in service to others. ... Another life lost in the name of public service. Politics truly is a different kind of beast. Justice for Lolo Vice Mayor Julio Estolloso," he said. 

The Diocese of Kalibo also issued a statement, seeking prayers for Estolloso, who they said is the brother of Father Jose Estolloso.