PALO, Leyte — The Leyte provincial government has offered a P300,000 reward for information that will lead to the arrest of three suspects in the killing of a village treasurer and the wounding of his companion last 5 October in Villaba town.

Mateo Rasonable, 41 years old, died after three men onboard a single motorcycle fired at them while they were driving along Barangay Cabungahan, around 18 kilometers from the police station.

"We urgently seek the public's assistance in bringing the perpetrators to justice and ensuring the safety of our community," the Leyte Provincial Police Office posted in its official Facebook account.

Reports said Rasonable and his companion, 86-years-old Angielyn Gulanie, were riding a motorcycle on their way home after a transaction at Land Bank-Carigara branch when the incident happened.

Rasonable was hit several times in the different parts of his body that caused his death on the spot while Gulanie was rushed to OSPA-Farmers' Medical Center in Ormoc City for treatment.

"We encourage anyone with relevant details about the suspect(s) or the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation. Your information can have a significant impact on helping the authorities solve this crime and ensure the victim receives justice," the LPPO post stated.

"We understand the potential concerns regarding confidentiality and assure you that all information received will be handled with the utmost discretion. Your identity can be protected, and your cooperation is crucial in creating a safe environment for every member of our community."

It remains unclear if the killing is related to the upcoming synchronized Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections. The towns of Leyte and Villaba form part of the province's third congressional district where elections are traditionally marred by political violence.

Last month, a village councilor running for barangay captain was shot dead in Leyte town while he was driving a pedicab.

In their appeal to the public, LPPO assured confidentiality and utmost discretion to those who will offer information.

"Let's work together to bring closure to the victim's loved ones and ensure that our municipality/province remains a secure place for all. Any information, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, could be the missing piece needed to solve this case," the provincial police office added.