The Liga ng mga Barangay in Sta. Maria, Pangasinan has condemned the killing of Barangay Paitan Chairman Rolando Albino who was gunned down while driving a barangay tricycle.

Albino, who also served as the vice president of the town’s Liga ng mga Barangay, was a respected leader in the community.

Liga ng mga Barangay President Doriza Ramos denounced the attack, describing Albino as a strong leader and a trusted figure among barangay officials.

“Strikto siya as barangay chairman pero sinusunod at nirerespeto siya ng ka-barangay niya,” Ramos said.

According to police, Albino stopped his tricycle when a man called out to him from the roadside.

As soon as he stopped, the suspect fired multiple shots using a .45 caliber pistol before fleeing the scene.

Albino’s family expressed grief and called for swift justice.

“Sa mga pulis na humahawak ng kaso niya, dapat po sana maresolba agad. Para alam po namin ang aming gagawin,” the victim's wife said.

Authorities have identified a person of interest and are gathering additional evidence.

“Bago mangyari ang krimen, itong gunman ay tumambay muna sa isang eskwelahan. At nakita ito, nagtanggal ng helmet. So, namukhaan pati motor niya,” Pangasinan Police Provincial Office Director PCol. Rollyfer Capoquian said.

Investigators are looking into various possible motives, including politics and Albino’s past as a former police officer.

The PNP assured a thorough investigation to bring justice to the slain barangay official.