Officials Deny Involvement in Shocking Live-Streamed Murder
In a dramatic turn of events, Sta. Cruz Mayor Nelson “Tata” Sala has issued a strong denial of any connection to the brutal killing of Barangay Tres de Mayo Captain Oscar “Dodong” Bucol Jr., who was shot dead while livestreaming on Facebook on the night of Tuesday, November 25, in Digos City.
Breaking his silence during an exclusive interview with local media on Friday, November 28, Mayor Sala acknowledged his past professional relationship with the victim. He confirmed that Bucol was once a trusted associate in his former STL business. However, Sala was emphatic in refuting the allegations, stating they are completely baseless and that his conscience is clear.
Despite the serious accusations circulating on social media, the mayor appeared unbothered and continued with his official duties. He was present at a turnover ceremony for farm machinery and agricultural inputs for agrarian reform beneficiaries in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur, an event organized by the Department of Agrarian Reform.
Governor Cagas Issues Forceful Denial
Adding another layer to the high-profile case, Davao del Sur Governor Yvonne Roña Cagas has also categorically denied any involvement in the barangay captain's death. In a strongly worded online statement released on Thursday, November 27, the governor addressed what she described as defamatory accusations.
Governor Cagas expressed her commitment to transparency and truth, stating she is fully prepared to cooperate with any lawful investigation. She condemned the spread of rumors and emphasized that such serious allegations should be addressed through proper legal channels, not online speculation.
In her statement, she declared, "I am aware of the false and baseless accusation circulating about me. I categorically deny any involvement in orchestrating any harm against anyone." She added a pointed message, "You can shift the blame all you want, but the truth remains untouched—and so does the innocence of the person you're trying to sacrifice."
Victim's Past and Intensified Police Manhunt
The murdered official, Oscar Bucol Jr., was a polarizing figure in local politics. He had frequently claimed to be receiving death threats. In his online broadcasts, he was openly critical of officials in Digos City and Sta. Cruz while expressing strong support for Governor Cagas.
His final broadcast was tragically cut short by gunfire, an incident that has been widely condemned. The Digos City Government labeled the shooting a "senseless act of violence" and praised Bucol as a committed public servant. Digos City Mayor Josef Fortich Cagas also denounced the attack and distanced himself from any alleged involvement.
In response to the crime, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a massive operation. Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered police in Davao del Sur and neighboring areas to coordinate closely. The police are now:
- Deploying additional tracker teams.
- Activating barangay intelligence networks.
- Conducting round-the-clock monitoring and sweeps of potential hideouts.
- Reviewing witness statements and all available surveillance footage.
A substantial reward of P5 million has been offered for information that will lead to the arrest of the gunman and the alleged mastermind behind this brazen attack.
