ZAMBOANGA CITY — An active barangay kagawad of Manicahan was shot dead at dawn on Saturday, November 22, 2025, along Martha Drive in Barangay Sta. Catalina, in an attack that has drawn widespread condemnation and calls for swift justice.
The victim was identified as Jon-Jon “Julambri” Utubara, a dedicated barangay kagawad of Manicahan and an openly LGBTQIA+ community member. Utubara was found critically wounded after being attacked by an unidentified gunman. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.
According to initial reports shared by Zamboanga City Councilor Kimberly Villaflores, authorities are looking into the possibility that Utubara may have been held up prior to the shooting, as several of his personal belongings were reported missing. Investigators, however, have yet to determine the motive and are still verifying all leads.
Councilor Villaflores expressed deep concern over the killing, calling it “alarming, senseless, and unacceptable.” She urged law enforcement agencies to exhaust all efforts to identify the suspect and hold the perpetrator accountable.
The Barangay Council of Manicahan also issued a strong statement condemning the brutal attack on their colleague. The council mourned the loss of Utubara, describing him as a committed public servant and a proud LGBTQIA+ individual whose death is “a great loss to the barangay and the community he faithfully served.” The council extended its condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and constituents, emphasizing that they “demand justice as soon as possible.”
“We pray for Jon-Jon’s eternal peace. His memory will forever remain with us,” the council added.
Authorities continue to conduct a thorough investigation to establish the motive behind the killing and determine the identity of the assailant. The community of Manicahan, meanwhile, is calling for heightened security and swift action to ensure that justice is served for the slain kagawad.