A manager of banana firm Dole Philippines was found dead with a gunshot wound in the head in front of his Toyota Hilux vehicle along Diversion Road, Barangay Casisang, Malaybalay City at around 5:00am Saturday, March 18, 2023. Police investigators identified the victim as Roger Balista, 46 years old, married, manager of North Skyland-Bukidnon Cluster, a native of Tagum City, Davao del Norte and temporary residing at Purok 1, Kalasungay, Malaybalay City.
Radio reports revealed that a concerned citizen reported to Malaybalay City Police Station from about a dead person seen at around 5:00am Purok 14 Sitio Gabunan, Barangay Casisang Malaybalay City. Police who responded to the scene saw the victim lying face down in front of his gray Toyota Hilux vehicle bearing plate number NAX 3296. Further investigation by police revealed victim had a gunshot wound at the back of his head. He also had a 9mm pistol on his right hand covered by a handkerchief. Tire skid marks were also found at the crime scene.
Information gathered by police also revealed the victim left the Dole Staff House at around 4:41am reportedly to go to their processing plant at Sitio Gabunan, Brgy Casisang. Police are now looking into possible motives of the killing.
