Misamis Occidental mayor dies days after Christmas party shooting

Lopez Jaena, Misamis Occidental Mayor Michael Gutierrez has succumbed to his gunshot injuries after he and congressional aspirant Jason Almonte were shot at a Christmas party on December 23.

Gutierrez and Almonte were both wounded after they were hit by a sniper during the party in Tangub City.

"A life so beautifully lived deserves to be beautifully remembered. With great sorrow, we announce the loss of our beloved husband, father and a leader, late Michael Gutierrez," Andrea wrote.

Congressman offers P5-M bounty for suspect

Misamis Occidental Representative Henry Oaminal, who suffered minor bruises from the shooting incident, sent his sympathies to Gutierrez family as he vowed to put the mayor's killers to justice.

"Our hearts grieve with the family of Mayor Michael P. Gutierrez on news of his passing. His legacy will live on in the hearts of his constituents," he said.

"This brazen and senseless act of violence has no place in a democratic society, especially when it threatens our fundamental right to vote. We cannot let fear and injustice prevail over us," Oaminal added.

He also raised a P5 million worth of bounty for anyone who can give information on Gutierrez's killers.

"For this reason, I am putting forward a Php5 million bounty for anyone who can provide information that would lead to the eventual capture and incarceration of the murderers behind this despicable act. We encourage those with information to visit your nearest police station. Rest assured, your identities will be protected," he said.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) had announced it is conducting further probe into the fatal shooting. It also encouraged witnesses of the murder to help them in the investigation by reporting to nearest police stations or through these numbers: 0917-631-1813/0915-303-3072. —NB, GMA News