Caloocan village chief shot dead

MANILA, Philippines — A barangay captain in Caloocan City and a close ally of Mayor Oscar Malapitan was shot dead by five armed assailants who were all wearing face masks past midnight yesterday.

The police said Douglas “Gally” Dilao, Barangay 151 chairman, was walking back to the barangay hall from a birthday celebration when the motorcycle-riding assailants waylaid and shot him. All the assailants were said to be wearing black jackets and black face masks.

Dilao was rushed to a hospital where he was declared dead on arrival.

Malapitan expressed his sympathies to Dilao’s family, saying the barangay chief was a “good friend” since he was still a member of Congress.

“I am deeply saddened by the incident. Chairman Dilao is not just a loyal public servant, he is also a good friend. I have known him since I was a congressman, that’s why I know that he is a loving father, a good friend and a generous leader to his constituents,” Malapitan said in Filipino in his statement yesterday.

“I have instructed the police to investigate the incident to immediately identify the perpetrators and give justice to Captain Dilao over his death,” Malapitan added.

“Let us pray for justice and for the repose of his soul. Your memories and love for the city of Caloocan, especially your barangay constituents, will remain in our hearts. Thank you Captain Gally Dilao!” the statement also read.

Caloocan police chief Col. Dario Menor said his office is looking into the possible motives of the killers. He added that Dilao’s family members have yet to issue their statements, requesting that they be given time to grieve.

Menor also revealed that they intend to get a statement from Dilao’s live-in partner, who was said to be walking with the barangay official when the attack happened.

As investigators continue looking for leads, they found that the CCTV of the barangay hall, which could have shed light on the incident, was not working.

The mayor said that his son, Rep. Dale Malapitan, revealed that Dilao received threats to his life.

The lawmaker recalled that he had a previous talk with Dilao where the latter alleged that an unknown caller asked for money or he will be killed.

Malapitan offered a reward of P250,000 for anyone who could point to the identities of the assailants.

Dilao’s killing came days after a barangay captain in Quiapo, Manila was shot dead while manning a checkpoint.