Church Treasurer Benjamin Mendez Passes After Shooting Outside Cagayan de Oro SDA Church
In the quiet morning hours of November 6, 2025, the community of Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines, was shaken by a tragic incident that unfolded outside the Seventh-Day Adventist Church on Licoan Road, Barangay Puntod. Benjamin Mendez, aged 49, who served as the church’s treasurer, was fatally shot in what police have described as a targeted attack linked to internal financial disputes.
According to the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), the shooting occurred around 9:30 a.m., just outside the main church compound. Witnesses reported hearing several gunshots before seeing a red car speeding away from the scene. When officers arrived, they found Mendez suffering from multiple gunshot wounds — two to the back and two to the legs. Despite immediate attempts by responders to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities recovered eight empty shell casings near the entrance gate. Investigators quickly traced the vehicle and identified the primary suspect as Chosen Gem Avista, a 35-year-old church member and former employee of the same congregation. Within an hour of the attack, Avista surrendered voluntarily to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG-10) and turned over his firearm.
Preliminary police findings suggest that the motive stemmed from an ongoing dispute over church funds. Mendez, in his capacity as treasurer, had been responsible for reviewing and auditing internal financial accounts. Reports indicate that he had recently issued official memorandums regarding discrepancies in certain records linked to Avista’s previous position. Family members told police that Mendez had received multiple threats in the days leading up to the shooting and had even filed a complaint for intimidation.
Mendez’s son, Jediah, described his father as a man of principle who remained calm and devoted despite the tensions. “He believed in doing the right thing, even when it was hard,” he said tearfully. “He always told us honesty and faith must come first.”
The church leadership expressed deep sorrow and condemned the act of violence. They confirmed that Mendez had been performing his official duties with integrity and fairness. The church’s pastor stated, “Benjamin was not just a treasurer — he was a man of faith who carried his responsibilities with honesty. This tragedy has wounded us all.”
Investigators continue to build a comprehensive case. The suspect, now in custody, is facing murder charges, and police are conducting ballistic and forensic tests to confirm weapon use. CCTV footage from surrounding establishments is being analyzed to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the attack. Authorities have ruled out robbery, affirming that the act was deliberate and personal.
In the aftermath, community members and fellow churchgoers have created a memorial at the site where Mendez was shot. Dozens gathered for a candlelight vigil on Thursday night, praying for his family and calling for justice. The tragedy has reignited discussions about violence within faith communities, with religious and civic leaders urging compassion, accountability, and conflict resolution grounded in faith and understanding.
Benjamin Mendez was known not only as a diligent financial officer but also as a loving husband, father, and friend. Those who knew him described him as humble, faithful, and deeply committed to serving both his congregation and his community.
In a statement, the Mendez family expressed gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of support: “We are heartbroken but strengthened by the love we’ve received. Benjamin’s life was one of service and faith. We pray that justice will be done and that others may learn from this tragedy.”
In summary:
On the morning of November 6, 2025, 49-year-old Benjamin Mendez, the treasurer of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Cagayan de Oro City, was fatally shot outside his church in what appears to be a targeted attack tied to internal financial disputes. The suspect, Chosen Gem Avista, surrendered to authorities shortly after and now faces murder charges. The investigation continues as the community mourns a man remembered for his integrity, faith, and service.
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