November 29, 2024
Carmen, Cotabato – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a relentless hot pursuit operation to capture the suspects behind the fatal shooting of a microfinance officer in Barangay Manarapan, Carmen, Cotabato, on Friday.
According to reports, the incident occurred at around 12:30 PM in Sitio Sacab, part of the Special Geographic Area of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (SGA-BARMM). The victim, identified as Billy Lamasan Cordero, 28, was on his way to Poblacion Carmen on a black Honda XRM 125 motorcycle when two unidentified men on a black Kawasaki Bajaj motorcycle approached him and opened fire.
Cordero, a microfinance officer for ASA Philippines, sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger riding with him, whose identity has been withheld, was injured during the attack.
Robbery Suspected as Motive
Initial investigations suggest that robbery may have been the motive behind the killing, as the cash collections of the victim were missing after the attack. This was confirmed by Cordero’s area supervisor in an interview with local radio station Max FM Midsayap.
Family Demands Justice
Cordero, a resident of Barangay Tinaungan in President Quirino, Sultan Kudarat, was described as a dedicated employee. His family is now seeking justice for his tragic death.
PNP-Carmen Municipal Police Station Chief P/Lt. Col. Nestor Maderse Jr. revealed that they are coordinating with various police units and military forces to track down the perpetrators. Authorities have urged the public to report any information that may lead to the suspects’ arrest.
This latest incident has raised concerns over the safety of finance officers traveling in remote areas, highlighting the need for stricter security measures in high-risk zones.
Investigation and operations remain ongoing as the community awaits justice for Cordero and his grieving family.