Barangay Captain Executed During Facebook Live Broadcast
The peaceful evening of November 25, 2025, turned tragic when Barangay Captain Oscar "Dodong" Bucol Jr. of Barangay Tres de Mayo, Digos City, Davao del Sur was shot dead while conducting a live stream on Facebook. The provincial police confirmed the shocking incident the following day, November 26.
The attack unfolded in real time as Bucol's constituents watched helplessly through their screens. The livestream captured the horrifying moment when gunfire erupted, showing the barangay captain clutching his shoulder and desperately calling for help before collapsing.
Emergency responders rushed Bucol to Digos Doctors' Hospital Inc., but medical personnel declared him dead on arrival. He had sustained a fatal gunshot wound.
Family Demands Independent NBI Investigation
In response to the brutal killing, lawyer Israelito Torreon has formally requested the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to conduct a parallel and independent investigation. Torreon submitted the request through a letter addressed to NBI Officer-in-Charge Lawyer Angelito DLP Magno, transmitted via NBI Regional Director Lawyer Archie Albao of the NBI-Southern Mindanao Office.
The Bucol family expressed deep concerns about potential political motivations behind the attack. According to Torreon, the family believes the incident carries significant political and institutional implications that require investigation by a national body without local political ties.
"The family believes that only an investigation led by the NBI can ensure impartiality," Torreon emphasized, noting that the inquiry must be free from local political influence and capable of addressing all angles of the attack.
History of Criticism and Threats
The request for NBI intervention stems from Bucol's outspoken nature regarding local governance issues. The barangay captain had repeatedly used his livestreams to highlight alleged irregularities in government projects and express tensions with various political figures in Digos City and nearby municipalities.
Torreon revealed that Bucol had openly discussed threats to his safety in the days leading up to his assassination. Supporters noted that the barangay captain continued airing his criticisms despite receiving repeated warnings and threats.
"His openness about his criticisms, coupled with his commitment to expose wrongdoing, has raised concerns that his killing may be linked to political or institutional motives," the lawyer stated in his letter to the NBI.
Legal Basis for NBI Involvement
Torreon cited Republic Act No. 10867 as the legal foundation for NBI jurisdiction in this case. The law mandates the NBI to investigate cases involving:
- Extrajudicial killings
- High-profile murders
- Politically sensitive incidents
- Crimes requiring sophisticated forensic capabilities
The lawyer also addressed reports that a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) had been activated by the Davao del Sur Police Provincial Office. He stated that if such a task group exists, the family requests that the NBI lead its investigative direction.
Leadership Transition and Family's Resolve
As investigations continue, Barangay Tres de Mayo has undergone a leadership transition. First Kagawad Jeric Bucol, younger brother of the slain official, has officially taken his oath as the new barangay captain, following standard succession procedures.
Jeric confirmed his recent oath-taking and expressed unwavering determination to pursue justice for his brother. "The family and the barangay will not stop seeking answers and accountability," he declared, adding that the pain caused by the attack has strengthened their resolve.
The new barangay captain now faces the dual challenge of managing regular barangay functions while guiding a grieving community through emotional recovery from a crime that many witnessed live online.
Community in Shock, Demanding Justice
Residents of Barangay Tres de Mayo continue to express profound shock following the brutal killing. The livestreamed nature of the attack caused widespread distress, with many describing the incident as both traumatic and symbolic of deeper tensions in the area.
Online discussions and community conversations reflect a shared sentiment that justice can only be achieved through a transparent, independent, and comprehensive investigation. As the NBI evaluates Torreon's request, the community remains vigilant, closely monitoring developments and hoping the truth behind the killing will soon emerge.
The case has drawn attention to the risks faced by public officials who speak out against alleged irregularities in local governance, raising important questions about political violence and accountability in the region.
