BACOLOD CITY — A former city mayor in Negros Occidental was found dead inside his house in Barangay Mambulac, Silay City on Monday afternoon, Dec. 2, 2024.
Initial investigation by the Silay City Police Station showed that former mayor Carlo Gamban, 85, was found inside his room at around 2 p.m. with possible gunshot wounds to his temple, Lt. Col. Mark Anthony Darroca, Silay City police chief, said.
Investigators recovered a slug and a revolver with an unknown caliber, which will be subjected to ballistic examination, Darroca said.
Gamban, who is reportedly suffering from a lingering illness and was recently brought to a hospital, was found dead by his two helpers. His wife was reportedly not at the house when the incident happened.
“Mayor Gamban was a good mayor who loved the people,” incumbent Mayor Joedith Gallego said in a statement posted on his Facebook page.
“It is with a heavy heart that I join the people of Silay City in mourning the passing of our beloved former Mayor Carlo Gamban.”
Gallego also said that the former mayor “was more than a public servant, but also a beacon of wisdom, humility, and dedication to our community. His leadership left an indelible mark on Silay City, and his selfless service continues to inspire us.”
Gallego said he will always cherish Gamban’s advice and unwavering support to his political career.
“He was a mentor to many, including myself, and his guidance will remain a source of strength as we continue to strive for progress in our city,” Gallego said.
“May the Gamban’s family find solace in the knowledge that his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched. Let us honor his memory by upholding the values he held dear and working together to build the brighter future he envisioned for Silay City.”
Gamban supported Gallego during the last election.
Gallego said he instructed Darroca to conduct a thorough investigation into Gamban’s death.
The family of the late mayor has not issued a statement at post time.
Gamban, a prominent sugar planter in Negros Occidental, was elected mayor of Silay City in May 2004.
