Barangay Chairman of Lenienza, Pagadian City, Punches his Brgy.Councilor Inside the Barangay Hall after Session

PAGADIAN CITY — Tension broke out at the Barangay Lenienza Hall on Monday afternoon, November 3, 2025, after Barangay Captain Prince Gerona, who is currently on leave, punched and choked Acting Barangay Captain and First Councilor John Mendez Cajote during a heated confrontation.

The altercation occurred inside the barangay hall around 1 p.m., leaving Cajote with a wound on his forehead that required two to three stitches, along with other facial injuries.

According to Cajote, the incident stemmed from his decision to withhold the issuance of a certificate of indigency to the wife of Gerona’s bodyguard. He said he intended to consult the barangay council first since the applicant’s husband is facing charges related to illegal possession of firearms.

Cajote described the assault as an act of harassment and confirmed his plan to file charges against Gerona. He assured the residents of Barangay Lenienza that his condition is now stable, though he remains under medication due to his injuries.

Meanwhile, police investigators are conducting a follow-up investigation into the incident. Barangay Captain Gerona has yet to issue any statement regarding the matter.

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