A barangay councilor in Cebu City was brutally gunned down by two unidentified assailants in a pre-dawn attack last Saturday, January 3, 2026. The incident has sent shockwaves through the community and prompted an intensive police investigation.
Ambush on a Quiet Street
The victim was identified as Ramon Diamante, a councilor of Barangay Sawang Calero and a fish trader operating at the Pasil Fish Port. According to the Sawang Calero Police Station, the shooting occurred at approximately 4:20 AM on General Gines Street.
Investigators revealed that Diamante was simply walking in the area, a part of his daily routine due to his business, when he was suddenly approached by two men riding a yellow motorcycle. The attack was swift and caught on a barangay CCTV camera.
CCTV Footage Provides Crucial Clues
The closed-circuit television footage captured the chilling moments of the crime. It clearly showed the motorcycle's back rider, who was wearing a white shirt, firing at the councilor. After the shooting, the assailants immediately fled the scene toward an unknown direction.
Despite being rushed to the Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC), Diamante was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians. The brazen attack in the early hours has left residents and officials alarmed.
Business Motive Under Scrutiny
Police investigators have disclosed that one of the primary angles they are exploring is a possible link to Diamante's fish trading business. "Negosyo sa isda sa konsehal ang usa sa ilang gisusi nga motibo sa krimen," an investigator from the Sawang Calero Police Station stated, confirming they are looking into business rivalry as a potential motive.
Authorities are withholding further details as the investigation is ongoing. However, they have expressed strong confidence in identifying the perpetrators. Additional CCTV footage from a house near the crime scene is reported to provide clear images of the suspects' faces, giving investigators a solid lead.
This footage is now a central piece of evidence as police work to track down and apprehend those responsible for the murder of the barangay official.
