W. Visayas police probe killing of Ibajay vice mayor

The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) has confirmed it is closely monitoring the fatal shooting of Ibajay Vice Mayor Julio M. Estolloso by Sangguniang Bayan (SB) Member Mihrel B. Senatin on Friday morning, August 8.

In a statement released later that day, PRO6 Regional Director PBGEN Josefino D. Ligan said the incident took place at approximately 9:15 a.m. inside the SB Office in Poblacion, Ibajay.

Initial police reports revealed that Senatin entered the SB Office to request a copy of local ordinances passed during his term. He then allegedly approached Vice Mayor Estolloso and asked, “Vice, anu ang saea kimu?” (translated as “What wrong have I done to you?”) before pulling out a firearm and shooting the vice mayor multiple times.

Witnesses said Estolloso suffered six to seven gunshot wounds to the head and chest. He was immediately rushed to the Ibajay District Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.

Responding officers arrested Senatin and placed him in the custody of the Ibajay Municipal Police Station, where appropriate charges are being prepared.

“This unfortunate incident is deeply concerning, especially as it involves individuals who serve the public in positions of trust,” said PBGEN Ligan. “We recognize the sensitivity of the matter and extend our thoughts to everyone affected, especially the families and communities involved. We assure the public that PRO6, particularly Aklan Police Provincial Office, is handling the case with utmost professionalism and impartiality. Let us allow the due process of law to take its course while we work toward maintaining peace and order in the region.”

PRO6 emphasized its continued commitment to ensuring the safety and security of communities across Western Visayas.

Meanwhile, the victim’s grandson, George Estolloso, mourned the vice mayor’s death in a Facebook post:

“A beautiful life, lived in service to others. Daw d ako kapati! Another life lost in the name of public service. Politics truly is a different kind of beast. JUSTICE for Lolo Vice Mayor Julio Estolloso.”

As of this writing, DAILY TRIBUNE is still awaiting comment from the Aklan Police Provincial Office regarding updates on the investigation.