Mayor Joel Ruma shot dead at campaign event in Cagayan

Incumbent Mayor Joel A. Ruma of Rizal, Cagayan was shot dead during a campaign event in Barangay Illuru Sur on Wednesday evening.

Ruma and another individual, Merson Abiguebel, were rushed to Tuao District Hospital where the mayor was pronounced dead upon arrival; Abiguel survived with injuries.

The shooting occurred around 9:30 p.m. when Ruma was posing for photos with supporters at the barangay hall premises.

Police Brigadier General Antonio Marallag Jr., Police Regional Office-2 director, strongly condemned the violence and urged residents to cooperate with the investigation by providing any relevant information.

The suspect managed to escape and remains at large as patrol units conduct hot pursuit operations and establish high-risk checkpoints in nearby towns.

Rizal, Cagayan has now seen three of its mayors assassinated due to political motives, including the recent killings of former mayors Ventura Baloran and Raul Dela Cruz.

The deadly gun attack came barely three weeks before the midterm elections as authorities continue their efforts to bring justice for the victims while emphasizing the importance of a peaceful election process.