Davao City — Investigators are struggling to solve the November killing of a village official in Digos City, an official with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said, suggesting the perpetrators may have government ties.

Elias Leano, spokesperson for NBI Region 11, told a media briefing that the investigation into the death of Tres de Mayo barangay captain Oscar “Dodong” Bucol Jr. has proved exceptionally difficult.

“To be honest with the public, our policemen, myself, and the NBI are really having a hard time solving this case,” Leano said during the Davao Peace and Security Press Corps briefing.

Bucol, who also served as the provincial coordinator for the PDP Laban political party, was killed at his residence on 25 November 2025.

Leano characterized the attack as a “well-organized” and “politically motivated” plot.

While Leano did not name specific individuals, he cited that investigators have a lead on a suspect. He added that the bureau believes the assailants are “connected with the government.”

Leano said the method of the killing appears to follow a pattern established in recent sniper attacks at the Solariega Subdivision in Davao City and another in Nabunturan, Davao de Oro.