Balamban Councilor Apprehended as Alleged Mastermind in Colleague's Shooting
In a significant breakthrough, authorities in Balamban City have successfully apprehended the suspected mastermind behind the fatal shooting of a fellow barangay councilor. The arrest marks a pivotal development in a case that has gripped the local community since the incident occurred earlier this year.
Arrest During Search Warrant Operation
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, at precisely 3:10 PM, members of the Balamban Municipal Police Station executed a meticulously planned operation. Acting on credible intelligence, they served a search warrant at the residence of the suspect located in Barangay Luca, Balamban City. The operation was led by Police Lt. Col. Ruel Burlat, the chief of police, alongside his deputy, Police Captain John Kennedy Pajantoy.
During the search, law enforcement officers discovered and confiscated critical evidence, including a .45 caliber pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition and a live grenade. These items were seized in connection with violations of Republic Act 10591, which governs firearms and ammunition regulations in the Philippines.
Identification of the Suspect
The individual taken into custody has been identified as Carlo Ripdos Maunes, also known by the alias "Kokong." Maunes is a 39-year-old councilor serving in Barangay Luca, the same barangay where the victim held office. His arrest directly links him to the shooting of Councilor Renato Tribunalo, alias "Boy," which transpired on February 19, 2026.
In that tragic incident, Tribunalo was fatally shot in the chest, leading to an intensive police investigation. Authorities had previously arrested two other suspects, Robert Alcantara, aged 42, identified as the gunman, and Roger Doncillo, aged 49, who allegedly served as the motorcycle driver. Their apprehension on February 22, 2026, was facilitated by CCTV footage from the area.
Confessions and Motive
During interrogations, Alcantara and Doncillo reportedly confessed to their roles in the crime. They disclosed that they were hired by Councilor Maunes to assassinate Tribunalo in exchange for a payment of 30,000 Philippine pesos. However, after carrying out the shooting, they claimed they received only 2,000 pesos, highlighting potential disputes or deceit within the criminal arrangement.
This confession provided crucial leads that ultimately led to the issuance of the search warrant against Maunes. The Regional Trial Court (RTC) 7 Branch 8 in Toledo City authorized the warrant based on evidence suggesting Maunes was in possession of illegal firearms and explosives.
Current Status and Evidence Handling
As of now, Carlo Maunes remains in custody at the Balamban Municipal Police Station, where he is being held for further questioning and legal proceedings. The seized evidence, including the firearm and grenade, has been formally turned over to the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) for thorough analysis and safekeeping.
This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by local law enforcement to combat violence and uphold justice within the community. The case continues to develop as authorities piece together the full narrative behind this shocking act of political violence.
