The peaceful atmosphere of Calbayog City was shattered by violence when Barangay Captain Eugenio O. Berida Jr. fell victim to a brazen assassination attempt. The 54-year-old official was ambushed by unidentified assailants while traveling through Barangay Dagum on Tuesday afternoon, January 16.
The fatal attack occurred around 4:30 PM as Berida was navigating the streets aboard his motorcycle. Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots echo through the neighborhood, sending residents scrambling for safety. The assailants, whose identities remain unknown, managed to escape the scene immediately after the shooting.
Emergency responders rushed to the location, but their efforts proved futile. Berida was pronounced dead at the scene, his body bearing multiple gunshot wounds that spoke to the brutality of the attack. Crime scene investigators recovered several spent shells from a .45 caliber pistol, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing investigation.
Community Leadership Cut Short
Eugenio O. Berida Jr. served as the dedicated captain of Barangay Dagum, a position that placed him at the forefront of community leadership. His sudden and violent death has left residents reeling, with many expressing shock and disbelief at the loss of their local official.
This incident adds to the growing concern about violence targeting public officials in the Philippines. Barangay captains, as the most immediate form of local government, often find themselves vulnerable to such attacks, particularly in regions where political tensions run high.
Police Launch Manhunt Operation
Local authorities have launched a comprehensive investigation into the shooting. Police are currently pursuing several leads and have initiated a manhunt for the perpetrators. The motive behind the assassination remains unclear, with investigators exploring all possible angles including political rivalries, personal disputes, and other potential triggers.
Calbayog City Police Station has assured the public that they are deploying all available resources to solve this case. They've also increased police visibility in the area to prevent any retaliatory violence and to reassure the nervous community.
The death of Captain Berida has sparked conversations about the safety of local officials and the need for enhanced security measures for those serving in public office throughout the Samar region and beyond.
