By Felipe V. Celino
ROXAS CITY, Capiz — The brother of Dao, Capiz Mayor Jimbo Barruela has been accused of allegedly punching the mayor’s political opponent a week ago.
EJ Grino formally reported the incident to the Dao Municipal Police Station, claiming that Dodoy Barruela punched him around 5:30 p.m. on October 11, 2024.
Grino said he was standing by the road talking to someone when Barruela’s car allegedly bumped his motorcycle.
Afterward, Barruela approached him and asked about envelopes distributed during the last election, though it was unclear what type of envelopes he referred to.
Barruela also reportedly told Grino to withdraw from the mayoral race in Dao in next year’s election.
Two unidentified men, believed to be Barruela’s bodyguards, allegedly got out of the car, and Dodoy Barruela suddenly punched Grino in the chest.
To avoid further conflict, Grino said he quickly left the area, though the two alleged bodyguards followed him but failed to catch up.
Daily Guardian attempted to contact both Grino and Barruela for comment but received no response as of press time.
Grino is the only challenger to the incumbent mayor in the upcoming election.
