CALBIGA, Samar (July 23, 2025) – A barangay captain was shot and killed Wednesday afternoon by an unidentified gunman in Calbayog City. His wife was also hit by a bullet and injured in the same attack.
The victim was identified as Anastacio Erbon Catalan, barangay captain of Barangay Tape in Calbayog City. He died on the spot after being shot in the area where the incident happened.
His wife was wounded and rushed to a hospital, where she continues to receive medical treatment.
According to an initial police report, the couple was riding a sidecar in an undetermined direction. When they reached the boundary between Barangays Ginbaoyan Norte and Ginbaoyan Sur, unidentified gunmen opened fire on the barangay captain.
Captain Catalan died at the scene, while his wife was brought to a nearby hospital. Authorities have yet to confirm the identity and number of suspects involved.
However, a source in Calbayog City said police are already tracking a possible suspect. Authorities are also looking into the possibility that the attack may be connected to a recent action or decision made by the victim in relation to his duties as barangay captain.
A manhunt operation is now underway, led by Calbayog City Police Station chief PLtCol. Dinvir Revita. In a statement, he assured the public that efforts are ongoing to capture the suspect behind the shooting. | By Rommel L. Rutor / Samar Chronicle (Photo courtesy of Calbayog PNP)
