Filipino lawyer John “Jal” Laylo who was shot in the head in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA, has died, his mother and sister has confirmed Monday.
“To all that prayed and kept us close to their hearts, my family is more than grateful. No words can ever justify how appreciative we are for the love that you have extended. Unfortunately, my brother has passed. Once again, I am asking you to keep my family in your prayers,” Althea Laylo tweeted.
Laylo’s mother, Leah Bustamante Laylo, said his son passed on Sunday 1033am EST time (1033pm Philippine time).
The 36-year old lawyer and his mother were travelling to the US for a vacation and visit with families and friends. On Saturday 4:06 am EST (4:06pm Philippine time), they were shot apparently by some random shooters while on their way to the Chicago airport for their flight back to Manila.
One of the six bullets fired at their Uber car hit Laylo on his head. Leah also sustained 3 shrapnel wounds.“Before he left (us) he made sure we had fun! But never did I imagine or dream that its almost the end of our vacation will be like this! We travelled together and we are supposed to go home together! I will bring him home soon in a box!” Mrs. Laylo posted in her Facebook account. Messages of sympathies and condolences flooded the Twitter and Facebook accounts of the two bereaved family members.
Vice President Leni Robredo and Senator Laila de Lima were one of those who prayed for Laylo’s recovery, hours before his death. Laylo had served as legislative staff of De Lima. He also volunteered as legal staff of Leni in Makati City during the canvassing of votes in May 2022 presidential elections.
“Asking everyone to join us in prayer for Atty Jal’s healing. Let us pray unceasingly for a miracle to happen. Keeping his family in our hearts in this very difficult time,” Robredo tweeted. “I ask for prayers for Jal’s healing and recovery. Let us also call for justice for this brutal and senseless act. Walang puwang dapat ang ganitong karahasan sa mundo. Dapat mapanagot agad ang maysala at matigil na ang ganitong mga karumal-dumal na krimen,” De Lima tweeted.
