Zamboanga City — A 31-year-old barangay councilor from Zamboanga City is now fighting for his life following a brazen ambush in the early hours of Sunday, May 18, 2025.
Jake Niko Alaban Fabian, a barangay kagawad of Barangay Tumaga, was riding his motorcycle along a dimly lit street in Tumaga Porcentro when unidentified assailants opened fire. Initial police reports state Fabian sustained four gunshot wounds in various parts of his body. Responding emergency personnel and police officers rushed him to the hospital, where he remains under intensive medical care.
At the crime scene, investigators recovered five spent shells of a .45 caliber pistol. The suspects fled immediately after the attack and remain at large.
Local officials in Zamboanga City, together with the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO), are working closely to identify and apprehend those behind the attempted killing. Barangay officials from Tumaga expressed shock over the incident, describing it as a cowardly assault on a dedicated public servant.
PCOL Fidel B. Fortaleza Jr., City Director of ZCPO, personally visited Fabian in the hospital and condemned the attack. “We will do everything in our power to ensure justice is served. The safety and security of our barangay officials and constituents remain our top priority,” he said, assuring the victim’s family of the police force’s full support.
Meanwhile, Fabian’s family and supporters have launched a blood donation drive to aid his recovery. The initiative, led by Tau Gamma Phi, is being held at Barangay Camino Nuevo. The family specifically appeals for donors with Blood Type B+ to help meet Fabian’s urgent medical needs.
The incident has drawn widespread concern and condemnation. Congressman-elect Kat Chua issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and support for Fabian, calling him a loyal ally and a dedicated public servant.
“This attack is not just personal—it’s a blow to the values we stand for,” said Chua. “Jake has always been someone who genuinely cares for the people. I urge the Philippine National Police to act swiftly and deliver justice. Our community deserves peace, and those who work for the good of others deserve protection.”
As investigations continue, the public is encouraged to assist in any way possible—through information sharing, blood donations, or simply by raising awareness. For now, the city waits and hopes for the full recovery of Barangay Kagawad Jake Fabian.