Six-Year Ordeal Ends with Surgical Procedure
Cebu 1st District Board Member Lakambini "Neneth" Reluya has finally undergone a successful surgical procedure to remove an M16 bullet that had been lodged in her arm for six years. The bullet remained in her body since she survived a deadly ambush back in 2019 that claimed the life of her husband.
Emotional Decision Leads to Surgery
In a heartfelt Facebook post on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Reluya revealed that the surgery took place on November 12. The operation was performed by Dr. Stanley Caminero, who serves as the Cebu 2nd District Board Member and is a qualified physician.
Reluya shared that her decision to finally remove the bullet came after visiting her late husband's grave on All Souls' Day. During this emotional visit, she realized it was time to move forward with her life and begin the process of emotional healing.
Painful Memories Resurface
The surgery brought back difficult memories of the January 22, 2019 ambush in Barangay Linao, Talisay City. The violent attack took the life of her husband, then-San Fernando Mayor Ricardo "Nonoy" Reluya Jr., along with two other individuals.
Despite suffering multiple gunshot wounds during the ambush, Reluya miraculously survived the attack. She demonstrated remarkable resilience by continuing to serve in public office throughout her recovery.
Over the past six years, the lodged bullet had caused recurring pain and discomfort, serving as a constant physical reminder of the traumatic event. The successful removal has provided not only physical relief but has also marked an important step in her emotional recovery journey.
Reluya remains committed to seeking justice for her husband and the other victims of the 2019 ambush. She has vowed to continue her fight for accountability while moving forward with her personal healing process.
