The fatal shooting of a bodyguard at the residence of Tubigon Mayor-elect Marlon Amila on election night has raised serious issues about potential violations of election laws, including the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) gun ban and alcohol restrictions.
Daniel Carnice, identified as Amila’s security aide, was killed and another man, Bernard Hinotas, was wounded in a May 12, 2025 incident that occurred during vote canvassing at Amila’s compound in Barangay Guiwanon.
Police have charged Joel Macalandag of Carmen town with the shooting, which authorities described as stemming from a personal altercation during a drinking session.
Tubigon police ruled out political motives in the case.
“Based on our investigation, the incident was the result of a drinking session that turned violent,” said Tubigon Police Chief Maj. Francis Neon Alvarez.
Macalandag remains at large as of this report.
However, legal analysts and election watchdogs have raised issues about possible breaches of COMELEC rules, including the election-period gun ban and the prohibition of alcohol during the campaign and election periods.
The national and local election period for senators, congressmen, and local officials has already been scheduled. COMELEC has this period already set.
“The presence of firearms and alcohol at a candidate’s residence during vote canvassing is deeply troubling,” said one Bohol legal expert, adding that such incidents may constitute grounds for administrative or criminal liability.
COMELEC regulations also require strict compliance with security protocols, including proper documentation for armed personnel. It remains unclear whether those present during the incident were authorized under election rules.
Comelec and Bohol PNP authorities have not yet addressed whether Amila or others may face sanctions for any violations.
The Bohol Provincial Police Office has pledged to continue the investigation and appealed for public cooperation.