Gunmen kill Eduardo Balindres

Gunmen killed Eduardo “Eddie” Balindres, a Catholic layman and pastoral coordinator for the Matalam parish, on August 31, 2026. Unidentified assailants ambushed Balindres with repeated gunfire while he was returning home in Barangay New Abra, located in the Cotabato province of Mindanao in the southern Philippines.

The Diocese of Kidapawan, led by Bishop Jose Colin M. Bagaforo, issued a statement condemning the killing and calling for justice and the protection of human dignity. The Matalam parish described Balindres as a dedicated collaborator of the parish priest who assisted with all pastoral activities.

Local police are investigating the motive for the attack and have not yet identified or arrested any suspects. Investigators are currently examining the personal life of Balindres to find leads.