MANILA - A 69-year-old president of a subdivision homeowners' association was shot dead by still unidentified gunmen while he was attending a Christmas party in Antipolo, Rizal Sunday morning, police said Monday.

Police identified the victim as Engr. Hermilo Balucan, president of Puyat Homeowners Association in Sitio Sampaguita, Barangay Sta Cruz, Antipolo City.

Balucan was attending the homeowners' Christmas party in Puyat Court along Taktak Road when he stepped out from the venue to talk to someone. Three gunmen approached him from behind and shot him.

Balucan was rushed to the hospital but died while being treated.

Witnesses said the gunmen fled on a motorcycle.

Investigators are eyeing land dispute and politics as the possible motive behind the killing. Balucan was campaign manager of a councilor who is planning to run as barangay captain in their village.