Philippines: Tanauan City mayor assassinated July 2

Event

Tanauan City Mayor Antonio Halili was shot dead by a suspected sniper during a flag-raising ceremony at Tanauan City Hall on the morning of Monday, July 2 (local time). The assailant fled the scene following the shooting. Security forces have opened an investigation to identify the person(s) responsible for the killing and have erected checkpoints in the city and adjacent towns. Heightened security measures may be implemented around public officials and administrative buildings in the near-term.

Associated social and political unrest is possible in Tanauan City and surrounding areas in Batangas province in the coming days. An increased police presence and traffic disruptions are possible near potential protests.

Context

Police have considered Halili's practice of parading drug-crime suspects through the streets as a potential motive for his assassination. Halili was a drug-policy hardliner and supporter of the drug policies of President Rodrigo Duterte, and was also accused by some of aiding drug traffickers.

Advice

Individuals in Tanauan City and surrounding areas are advised to monitor developments to the situation, report all suspicious objects and behavior, avoid all potential related protests as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.