P1-million reward up for info on Misamis mayor slay

TANGUB CITY, Misamis Occidental, Philippines — Misamis Occidental Rep. Diego Ty has offered P1 million as a reward for anyone who could provide information that would solve the killing of a town mayor who had filed his candidacy for vice governor in the 2022 elections.

Ty said the investigation of the killing of Lopez Jaena Mayor Michael Gutierrez should lead to the identification of the mastermind, not just the gunman.

Gutierrez was hit in the head by a sniper bullet on Dec. 22 while attending a Christmas party hosted by Misamis Occidental Rep. Henry Oaminal for his political allies.

The slug went through a window frame before hitting Gutierrez’s temple.

Oaminal and former Oroquieta City Mayor Jason Almonte, who is seeking a congressional seat in Misamis Occidental’s first congressional district, were hurt after they were hit by bullet splinters and glass shards.

Gutierrez underwent surgery in a hospital in Ozamiz City before he was taken to another hospital in Metro Manila on Dec. 24. His family announced his death on Dec. 27.

Gov. Philip Tan thanked Police Brig. Gen. Benjamin Acorda Jr., Northern Mindanao police director, for assuring the public a speedy investigation.