Albuera mayoral candidate Rolan Kerwin Espinosa, once known as a key figure in the country’s drug war narrative, survived a brazen ambush during a campaign rally on Thursday, April 9. The gun attack happened in Barangay Tinag-an at around 4 p.m., according to police.
Espinosa, who was struck by a bullet, is now in stable condition and recovering in the hospital. He addressed his supporters via Facebook Live hours after the incident, expressing his gratitude and faith.
Dressed in a hospital gown and with visible signs of injury, Espinosa assured his followers, “Dili ta patyon sa Ginoo kay daghan ang nagmahal kanato ug daghan ang nag-ampo kanato.”
Espinosa’s Political Reemergence Turns Violent
Espinosa, the son of slain Albuera Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr., is campaigning for a mayoral seat in a tense political climate. Authorities said the gunman had hidden in the ceiling above the campaign stage and shot Espinosa from behind with an unknown firearm.
Two others were also hurt in the attack, including vice mayoral candidate Mariel Espinosa Marinay and a minor. All victims were rushed to a nearby hospital by Espinosa’s security team using a private vehicle.
Police say roadblocks and hot pursuit operations were launched immediately after the ambush, although no suspects have been identified yet. The motive remains under investigation.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) strongly condemned the violence. Chairman George Garcia said election-related attacks must be stopped, adding that elections should symbolize democracy, not bloodshed.
He emphasized that “ballots, not bullets,” should be the voice of the people.
Kerwin’s Troubled Past Still Haunts Campaign
Espinosa rose to national notoriety during the Duterte administration when he admitted to being involved in the illegal drug trade. However, he later recanted parts of his testimony, claiming a lack of physical evidence linking him directly to drug operations.
In 2024, a Baybay, Leyte court dismissed one of his drug cases. Still, he continues to face money laundering charges in Pasay, along with reopened cases related to illegal drugs and firearms possession, as ordered by the Court of Appeals.
Despite his criminal history, Espinosa is seeking redemption through public service and remains a controversial but significant figure in Leyte politics.
As investigators search for answers, his supporters cling to hope and faith, echoing his hospital words — a belief that a higher power continues to guide his life and journey.
Espinosa’s near-death experience now raises questions about safety in local political campaigns and the deep-rooted violence that continues to shadow the country’s election season.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.