Retards in the Government 486

It's your weekly compendium of foolishness and corruption in the Philippine government.

 

 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2298432/bfp-chief-sacked-faces-graft-bribery-case-in-sandiganbayan-ombudsman

Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) chief Jesus Fernandez was ordered dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman which has filed a graft case against him in the Sandiganbayan.

The anti-graft body said the criminal cases of Fernandez and another private individual stemmed from the procurement of 132 ambulances worth ₱485 million.

“The Ombudsman found prima facie evidence with reasonable certainty of conviction to charge Fernandez,” it said in a statement.

Fernandez was charged with two counts of indirect bribery and two counts of violation of Section 3(b) of Republic Act No. 3019 or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

In a separate administrative case arising from the same transaction, the anti-graft body found Fernandez guilty of conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service and grave misconduct.

“This carries the penalty of dismissal from the service, including cancellation of eligibility, forfeiture of retirement benefits, and perpetual disqualification from reemployment in government service,” Ombudsman said.

Inquirer is still trying to reach Fernandez for comment. We will include his side in this story once available. 

According to the Ombudsman, Fernandez’s cases and dismissal stemmed from a complaint filed by the Department of the Interior and Local Government following a fact-finding investigation by Task Force BFP Accountability into the procurement of 132 units of Type 1 Basic Life Support ambulances.

The contract, Ombudsman said, was awarded to Toyota Mabolo, which entered into a joint venture with Autozone Prime Distributors, Inc. for the project.

The joint venture’s representative Rosaverna Sangga was also charged with two counts of Corruption of Public Officials under Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code.

Investigators alleged that Fernandez “allegedly received a total of ₱14.752 million” from Sangga.

This amount was allegedly delivered on two separate occasions, according to investigators.

Sangga allegedly delivered ₱10.752 million to Fernandez on November 21, 2024, and another ₱4 million on Sept. 25, 2025, according to the Ombudsman ruling.

The ruling further stated that Fernandez was the bids and awards committee chairperson when he received the “first SOP” in Nov. 2024, while he was the head of the procuring entity when he received the “second SOP” in Sept. 2025.

It further said that “receiving any gift, compensation, promise, or consideration from any individual in relation to his position gives the appearance of impropriety, which does not only bring doubt to his credibility but significantly tarnishes the credibility of the agency that he leads, in this case, especially in the process of procurement.”

Bureau of Fire Protection chief Jesus Fernandez was ordered dismissed by the Office of the Ombudsman which has filed a graft case against him in the Sandiganbayan.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/09/03/cop-5-others-arrested-over-pldt-cable-theft

An active Manila police officer was among six people arrested after three of them were caught in the act of burning stolen PLDT cable wires in Sampaloc, Manila, early Wednesday, Sept. 2.

The Manila Police District (MPD) said the suspects were arrested at around 2:05 a.m. on Buenos Aires near the corner of Pelaez Street in Barangay 570 after police traced individuals allegedly involved in the theft of PLDT cables.

The operation stemmed from a validation of viral CCTV footage aired on TV5’s “Frontline Pilipinas” showing the reported theft of PLDT cable wires.

Police said personnel from the Gulod Police Community Precinct (PCP), led by Lt. Christopher P. Nogoy, along with intelligence operatives, gathered information on the suspects' identities and whereabouts.

This led police to a location beside the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), where they allegedly saw Michelle, 33;Junnie, 42; and Jayrhold, 41, burning the stolen PLDT cables.

The three were immediately arrested.

Police said Dela Cruz later identified Angelo, 29, and Jessie, 48, as alleged accomplices in the theft.

The sixth suspect was identified as Reynaldo, 36.

During verification, police discovered that Bantanore is an active member of the Philippine National Police currently assigned to Manila Police District Police Station 8.

The MPD General Assignment and Investigation Section was informed regarding the police officer for proper disposition and coordination.

Police recovered a burned PLDT wire from the suspects.

The Sampaloc Police Station also coordinated with PLDT for the verification and identification of the recovered cables.

The six suspects were brought to a public hospital for medical examination before being taken to the police station. They were informed of their constitutional rights in Tagalog and opted to remain silent, police said.

They are facing a complaint for violation of Republic Act No. 10515, or the Anti-Cable Television and Cable Internet Tapping Act of 2013, which will be filed through inquest proceedings before the Manila City Prosecutor’s Office.

An active Manila police officer was among six people arrested after three of them were caught in the act of burning stolen PLDT cable wires in Sampaloc, Manila.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2299522/sara-duterte-posts-p360000-bail-for-three-counts-of-grave-threats

Vice President Sara Duterte on Saturday posted bail for each of the three counts of grave threats filed against her at the Quezon City Regional Trial Court (RTC).

Duterte herself appeared before the QC RTC Branch 98, along with her lawyers Atty. Paul Lawrence Lim and Atty. Michael Poa to post bail.

In total, Duterte posted a cash bond of P360,000—or P120,000 for each count of the charges against her.

“What our vice president did today was go straight to the court, which itself issued an arrest warrant… so her requirements for bail were submitted and processed by the court itself,” Lim said in a chance interview with reporters.

“The court then issued an order stating that the arrest warrant has been revoked, so the vice president can finally move freely,” he added. 

Lim, however, clarified that Duterte continues to assert her defense when it comes to the court’s jurisdiction over impeachable officers like her.

“Because we stand by the fact that like other impeachable officers, they cannot be charged while they are in office, or until their term ends, or when they are impeached,” the vice president’s counsel explained. 

Lim maintained that posting bail is not equivalent to Duterte surrendering herself to the authority of the the RTC, stating that she was merely exercising her “right to bail.”

Meanwhile, Lim said the vice president’s legal team will look into the possibility of taking legal action over the enforcement of the arrest warrant.

This plan came about after Duterte said that authorities went to her family’s home, even when she herself wasn’t there—thereby, making her feel like her life was being threatened.

“We don’t really know yet what course of action we will take. But that’s something we definitely have to look into,” the vice president’s counsel noted.

Vice President Sara Duterte has been arrested and posed bail over a case in which she threatened President Marcos. 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/09/05/barangay-kagawad-nabbed-with-firearms-suspected-smuggled-cigarettes-inside-home

A barangay kagawad was arrested after a raid conducted in his home here on Friday, September 4, yielded firearms, ammunition and millions of pesos worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes.

The subject of the search warrant was identified as Mahamud Tan Arao Jr., 38, a barangay kagawad of Zone 4.

Operatives led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Zamboanga City implemented a search warrant at his home in Barangay Putik and allegedly recovered a 9mm caliber pistol, a .45 caliber pistol, several magazines, and ammunition.   Lawmen also allegedly recovered 20 master cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes valued at nearly P3-million.

The illegal firearms operation was conducted under Oplan Paglalansag Omega whle the cigarette seizure was considered incidental to a lawful search under Oplan Megashoppers.

Arao was informed of his constitutional rights and brought to the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit office for documentation and detention.

The seized firearms, ammunition and other items were tagged, inventoried and secured as evidence for the appropriate legal proceedings.

A barangay kagawad was arrested after a raid conducted in his home here on Friday, September 4, yielded firearms, ammunition and millions of pesos worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2300343/ombudsman-files-plunder-case-vs-romualdez-in-sandiganbayan

The Office of the Ombudsman on Monday filed a plunder case against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co. and other co-accused before the Sandiganbayan.

Ombudsman investigators accused Romualdez and former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co of alleged “concerted and coordinated acts” in “unlawfully amassing, accumulating, and acquiring ill-gotten wealth” amounting to approximately P56 billion from 2022 to 2025, some of which were purportedly delivered by the bodyguards through suitcases.

Inquirer sought comment from Romualdez’s camp, but they had yet to respond as of posting.

Marcos, in his fifth State of the Nation Address in July, said “we have to do what is right” as the anti-graft body is preparing to file cases against his cousin Romualdez.

Romualdez said he “respects” the statement of Marcos as he repeatedly denied charges against him, saying he is ready to prove that he did not do anything illegal. 

A  plunder case has been filed against former House Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co. and others.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2300232/2-pampanga-engineers-sacked-over-safety-lapses-after-mans-death

Two engineers from the Pampanga 3rd District Engineering Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) have been relieved of their duties for failing to comply with safety measures following a man’s death after he fell into an open drainage canal.

In a memorandum shared by the DPWH with the media late Sunday, Secretary Vince Dizon ordered the relief of Aser Mallari, officer-in-charge of the Office of the District Engineer, and Agustin Dagsaan Jr., officer-in-charge of the Office of the Assistant District Engineer, citing their “failure to comply with the required safety standards.”

The order is effective immediately. 

The engineers are instructed to conduct inventory, accomplish, complete, and sign pending documents to ensure smooth turnover of their responsibilities in their respective offices. 

Last August 28, Reiner Novero died after falling into a flooded, open drainage canal along the Fil-Am Friendship Highway in Barangay Cutcut in Angeles City, Pampanga. As seen in closed-circuit television footage circulating in social media, Novero was swept away by the strong current when he fell into the canal. 

After an hour, Novero was recovered two kilometers from where he fell and was found beneath a bridge in front of a subdivision in Barangay Sto. Domingo. 

The incident sparked safety concerns among many social media users pointing out why a drainage canal was left open.

Two engineers from the Pampanga 3rd District Engineering Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways have been relieved of their duties for failing to comply with safety measures following a man’s death after he fell into an open drainage canal.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2301546/maguindanao-del-norte-village-official-hurt-in-gun-attack-despite-ban

Unidentified gunmen shot and injured a village councilor in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte at 11:40 a.m. on Tuesday, police said.

The attack that injured Rusman Agar Pinguiaman, 33, a resident of Barangay Baka, Datu Odin Sinsuat town, occurred while the election gun ban is in effect in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) for the first parliamentary elections on Sept. 14.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) spokesperson, said Pinguiaman was taking a coffee break at a roadside restaurant when two men on a motorbike arrived.

Salaguit said one of them pulled a pistol and shot the village official in his chest.

The suspects immediately fled.

Relatives rushed him to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center in Cotabato City.

Salanguit said the motive of the attack and the perpetrators remained unknown and investigation is continuing.

She did not say if the attack was related to the Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.

Unidentified gunmen shot and injured a village councilor in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2301696/sc-upholds-graft-conviction-of-ex-siquijor-town-mayor-4-others

The Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of former Mayor Orville Fua of Lazi town, Siquijor province, and four others for graft in connection with the irregular procurement of fertilizers worth more than P4.9 million in 2004.

The high tribunal’s Second Division, in a decision promulgated on Jan. 22, but made public only on Tuesday, affirmed the 2023 ruling of the Sandiganbayan that found Fua and former Lazi officials Sue Castillon, Natalio Jumawan, Jr., Rose Marie Tomogsoc, guilty beyond reasonable doubt of violating Sec. 3(e) of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.

Castillon was the municipal engineer and a bids and awards committee (BAC) member, Jumawan was the municipal treasurer and also a BAC member, and Tomogsoc was the municipal accountant.

Also convicted of the same offense was Merlyn Lu of Mangopina Trading, Inc., the winning bidder in the fertilizer procurement.

They were meted a prison term of up to 10 years and were perpetually disqualified from holding public office.

The Supreme Court said that the transaction failed to undergo the mandatory pre-procurement conference as the cost of the fertilizers exceeded the threshold under bidding rules.

Fua and the other Lazi officials also did not comply with other requirements under Republic Act No. 9184, or the Government Procurement Reform Act, such as the holding of proper advertisement or invitation, notice of award and performance security bond. 

The high court also ruled that Mangopina was not eligible to supply the fertilizers as it had a bad record in government transactions, failing to pay for the renewal of mayor’s permit or license in 2003 and 2004.

It was also running on a license that expired in 2022, it noted.

“In other words, Mangopina was granted unjustified benefit despite its sheer lack of qualifications and patent multiple disqualifications,” read part of the 18-page decision penned by Associate Justice Amy Lazaro-Javier. 

The Supreme Court has upheld the conviction of former Mayor Orville Fua of Lazi town, Siquijor province, and four others for graft in connection with the irregular procurement of fertilizers worth more than P4.9 million in 2004.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2302267/cop-jailed-for-alleged-rape-of-minor-in-misamis-oriental

A police officer in Misamis Oriental is now behind bars and undergoing inquest proceedings after being accused of raping a minor, the provincial police office confirmed Wednesday.

In an advisory, the Misamis Oriental Police Provincial Office (MORPPO) said the personnel was taken into custody following a complaint for violation of the Anti-Rape Law of 1997 (RA 8353).

Upon receiving the report, MORPPO initiated investigative procedures, secured assistance for the minor victim, and referred her to proper authorities for examination and intervention. 

Parallel administrative actions are underway against the officer under Philippine National Police (PNP) regulations.

Col. Al Abanales, MORPPO director, ordered an expeditious, impartial probe and promised no preferential treatment or cover-up.

“We strongly condemn any form of sexual violence, especially when the victim is a minor. Such an allegation involving a police officer is a serious matter and will be dealt with accordingly,” Abanales said in a statement.

“The uniform does not place anyone above the law. We will ensure that due process is observed, the rights and welfare of the victim are protected, and accountability is pursued based on the evidence,” he added.

Police appealed to the media and the public to protect the victim’s identity, privacy, and dignity by refraining from sharing details that may lead to her identification. 

Abanales emphasized that they will not tolerate misconduct that erodes public trust in the police force.

A police officer in Misamis Oriental is now behind bars and undergoing inquest proceedings after being accused of raping a minor.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2302598/maguindanao-del-norte-village-official-nabbed-in-gensan-drug-bust

A village councilor from Maguindanao del Norte and two others were arrested with P1.4 million worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Labangal, General Santos City, on Tuesday afternoon, police said.

Brig. Gen. Alan Manibog, Police Regional Office (PRO-12) regional director, said Wednesday that the suspects, who were listed as high-value targets in the region, yielded about 200 grams of suspected shabu with an estimated value of P1,365,400.

Manibog said elements of the Regional Police Drug Enforcement Unit-12, along with operatives from the Gen. Santos City Police Office and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency-12, entrapped alias “Naro,” a village official of Barangay Mangay, Talitay, Maguindanao del Norte; alias “Jolt” and alias “Kivk,” both residents of Barangay Labangal, GenSan.

Police also seized the buy-bust money and personal belongings allegedly used to conceal the illegal drugs.

Charges for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, are being prepared against the suspects.

“Every gram of illegal drugs confiscated during police operations could mean saving several people from the danger of dangerous substances,” Manibog said.

A village councilor from Maguindanao del Norte and two others were arrested with P1.4 million worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2302613/valenzuela-cop-faces-admin-raps-over-indiscriminate-firing-in-bulacan

A police officer assigned to the Valenzuela City Police Station is set to face administrative charges for allegedly indiscriminately firing his gun, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Wednesday.

“The organization has been enforcing a one-strike policy against indiscriminate firing, and police officers found to be involved in such acts may face sanctions, including dismissal from the service,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement.

Nartatez said the implicated officer had allegedly indiscriminately fired his gun twice in Marilao, Bulacan, around midnight Tuesday.

Nartatez also noted that the police officer had been placed in police custody and was awaiting criminal charges for the illegal discharge of a firearm.

He further stressed that no one was injured in the incident.

The PNP chief did not identify the implicated personnel or explain why the officer had fired his gun.

“Our badge should not be used as an escape to do things irresponsibly. This will not save us from being accountable for our wrong actions,” Nartatez said.

“As law enforcers, we should always take the lead in following the law and other rules and regulations, especially on responsible gun ownership,” he added.

A police officer assigned to the Valenzuela City Police Station is set to face administrative charges for allegedly indiscriminately firing his gun.

Coronavirus Lockdown: PREP to Return, Seafarer's Remains, and More!

More news about how the COVID-19 pandemic in the Philippines is being handled by the public and the government. 

The Covid-19 pandemic caused a two to three year delay in the implementation of the Universal Health Care program. Health officials are now recalibrating the financing and roadmap toward 2028 to account for that setback. 

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1283330

Health officials are recalibrating the Universal Health Care (UHC) program’s financing and implementation roadmap toward 2028, with PhilHealth targeting a further reduction in Filipinos’ out-of-pocket medical spending and the Department of Health (DOH) working to complete key local health financing mechanisms.

During the Senate Committee on Finance hearing on Friday, PhilHealth President and CEO Beverly Ho said the state insurer is now following the Philippine Development Plan target of bringing household out-of-pocket health spending down to 37 percent by 2028.

“But we agree with you po that we have to recalibrate this, because it changes every three years,” Ho told senators.

Out-of-pocket spending stood at 41.2 percent of total health expenditure in 2025, down from around 55 percent a decade ago.

Ho said projections under the development plan indicate that health spending would need to reach around PHP639 billion to meet the 2028 target.

Acting Health Secretary Edwin Mercado said the recalibration also takes into account the two- to three-year delay in UHC implementation caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

He said universal PhilHealth eligibility has already been achieved, with all Filipinos entitled to coverage regardless of their contribution status.

“If we are talking about universal coverage, we have achieved that because all Filipinos now have immediate eligibility,” Mercado said.

The DOH is now focusing on strengthening the delivery side of the system, particularly the availability of accredited facilities capable of providing more complex procedures covered by PhilHealth.

Mercado cited open-heart surgery, renal transplantation and other treatments under PhilHealth’s Z benefit packages as services that may be covered but are not yet equally available nationwide.

Local governments are also being prepared to take a larger role in managing integrated health systems under the UHC law.

Mercado said around 110 local health systems are progressing in terms of maturity, while the DOH is targeting 2028 for local health units or chief executives to have their respective Special Health Funds.

“By 2028, local health units or local chief executives should have their own Special Health Funds, and we should have a proper financing analysis of how much is really needed to achieve universal healthcare,” Mercado said.

Meanwhile, Sen. Panfilo Lacson questioned the repeated changes in spending plans and financing targets since implementation began.

“So what is the practical purpose of financing strategies if we keep changing the targets or missing them?” Lacson said.

He also sought a clearer accounting of funds earmarked under various laws for UHC implementation, saying Congress could exercise its oversight authority if legally mandated allocations are not fully released.

Despite the delay, universal PhilHealth eligibility for all Filipinos has already been achieved. The focus has shifted to strengthening health facilities and local financing mechanisms that were slowed by the pandemic.

British indie-pop band PREP is set to return to Manila on October 15, 2026, for a headline show at The Filinvest Tent. The concert forms part of their Asia tour and follows earlier visits that were interrupted by pandemic-era restrictions on live events.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/09/03/prep-to-return-to-manila

British indie pop band PREP is coming back to Manila and for Filipino fans who have been following the group’s Philippine visits, the upcoming concert marks another chapter in a relationship that has lasted nearly a decade.

The London-based quartet will perform on October 15, 2026 at the Filinvest Tent in Alabang as part of their 2026 Asia tour.

Presented by Karpos Multimedia, the Manila show will be a standing-room-only concert, giving fans another chance to experience PREP’s smooth blend of indie pop, jazz harmonies, R&B grooves and synth-driven production live.

The group has also been using its history with Filipino audiences to build excitement for its return, with PREP’s previous Manila performances offering a reminder of just how often the band has made its way back to the country.

Looking back on their Philippine shows, the band has repeatedly praised the energy of Filipino audiences. PREP described their previous Philippine gigs as some of their loudest and most energetic experiences, recalling how fans sang along to entire songs rather than simply joining in for the choruses.  

Formed in London in 2015, PREP is composed of vocalist Tom Havelock, keyboardist Llywelyn ap Myrddin, drummer Guillaume Jambel and producer Daniel Radclyffe (of no relation to Daniel Radcliffe of Harry Potter fame). The band’s sound draws from several musical backgrounds, with classical music, house, hip-hop, R&B and jazz influences coming together in its polished but relaxed arrangements.

Their latest EP, "One Day In The Sun," was released in January 2026 and features the Taiwanese synth-pop band Sunset Rollercoaster on “Do What You Gotta.”

With another Manila show now on the calendar, Filipino fans can expect a set that combines PREP’s older favorites with newer material. 

PREP first performed in the Philippines in 2017 in 2018. The band was also part of the Wanderland Music Festival lineup in 2019. Their planned 2020 Asia tour was canceled amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but PREP eventually returned to Manila in November 2022 for a sold-out concert at the Samsung Hall in SM Aura, Taguig. 

In 2024, PREP returned to the country yet again, this time for a headlining Karpos Live show at the Filinvest Tent with the 2026 concert bringing the band back to a venue that has already becoming familiar territory. 

For a band that has repeatedly made Manila part of its touring history, the October concert is less a first meeting and more another reunion with an audience that has welcomed it back time and again.

While they did return in 2022 this is just more evidence that the Manila concert schedule is getting back on track post-pandemic.

The remains of Filipino seafarer Sam Dela Cruz, who died in Somalia in 2018, have still not been returned to the Philippines after more than eight years. The Department of Foreign Affairs cited the COVID-19 pandemic as one of the factors that stalled repatriation efforts. Diplomatic requests sent since 2018 through the Philippine embassy in Nairobi went unanswered. 

https://www.philstar.com/headlines/2026/09/04/2553797/8-years-on-philippines-yet-claim-filipino-seafarers-remains-somalia

The Department of Foreign Affairs has vowed to send fresh instructions to the Philippine embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, to press Somali authorities to return the remains of a Filipino seafarer who died more than eight years ago, after its latest request went unanswered.

Sam Dela Cruz, a 25-year-old seafarer registered with manning agency GMM Global Maritime, died of cardiopulmonary arrest in Somalia on July 28, 2018. His remains have yet to be brought back to the Philippines. 

The issue was brought up during Thursday's House deliberations on the DFA's proposed 2027 budget, when Rep. Brian Poe Llamanzares (FPJ Panday Bayanihan), vice chair of the House appropriations committee, asked the department what progress had been made to repatriate Dela Cruz' remains.

The DFA said its attempts since 2018 to return Dela Cruz' remains have stalled in the absence of a Philippine mission in Somalia and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Dela Cruz' burial was carried out immediately under Somalia's Islamic Sharia law before the family could weigh in.

Context reported in 2025 that a burial request was filed with a Somali court the day after Dela Cruz's death. The agency he was under, GMM Global maritime, no longer appears in a Singapore online business directory, "which can mean it has ceased operations or changed names," the report stated. 

"We understand the immense difficulty and emotional pain the family continues to endure during this prolonged process," Undersecretary Ezzedin Tago, DFA's officer in charge of migrant affairs told House lawmakers. "The DFA remains committed to supporting the Dela Cruz family."

Because the Philippines has no mission in Somalia, the case has been handled through the Philippine embassy in Nairobi, which holds jurisdiction over the country. 

The DFA official said the embassy has a record of diplomatic notes sent to the Somali government since 2018, none of which drew an official reply.

GMM Global Maritime reached out to Somali authorities in November 2018 and located Dela Cruz's burial site in Bosaso, roughly 1,000 kilometers from the capital, Mogadishu, according to the DFA.

The manning agency secured permits and funding for exhumation and reached a "preliminary agreement with local officials," but negotiations stalled and the exhumation never happened.

In 2025, the DFA asked the Nairobi embassy to raise the case again with the Somali embassy there, to relay the department's and family's request to the Somalian government. That, too, went unanswered, Tago said.

"With that update, we will reinstruct or send the instructions again to our embassy in Nairobi to meet with the Somali embassy in Nairobi to revive this issue," the DFA official said.

Llamanzares said Somalia's non-response was "not our fault," but said the government should continue to "try its best to bring home the body of our kababayan." 

"We should not stop knocking at their door to ask for the body back," Llamanzares said.

The DFA has now vowed to renew instructions to press Somali authorities once more for the return of the body.

Philippine business confidence in July fell below the levels recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas index dropped to -20.3%, weaker than the readings seen in the third quarters of 2020 and 2021. 

https://bilyonaryo.com/worse-than-covid-era-levels-ph-businesses-turn-gloomier/

Philippine businesses turned sharply pessimistic in July, with confidence falling below levels recorded in published surveys during the COVID-19 pandemic as Middle East tensions, higher oil prices and persistent inflation weighed on sentiment.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ business confidence index plunged to -20.3% in July from zero in June, meaning pessimists outnumbered optimists.

The reading was weaker than the -5.3% recorded in the third quarter of 2020 and -5.6% during the Delta-driven surge in the third quarter of 2021.

The BSP canceled its survey during the nationwide lockdown in the second quarter of 2020, when economic disruption was most severe. The survey was also conducted quarterly at the time, compared with its current monthly frequency.

Among firms that reported a weaker outlook, nearly 20% cited renewed tensions in the Middle East, while 15.1% pointed to higher oil prices stemming from disruptions to fuel shipments through the Strait of Hormuz. Another 11.3% blamed persistent inflation.

Sentiment also deteriorated for the months ahead. The confidence index for October dropped to 3.7% from 18.8%, while the outlook for the next 12 months fell to 29.4% from 42.4%.

Businesses said a prolonged Middle East conflict and elevated energy prices could weigh on economic growth, while governance concerns could undermine investor confidence.

The business activity index fell to minus 0.1% from 8.3%, while total orders declined to -0.7% from 5.4%.

Firms also reported tighter financial conditions and access to credit. Average capacity utilization in the industry and construction sectors dropped to 68.6% from 73.9%.

Hiring expectations weakened, with the 12-month employment outlook falling to 9% from 20.2%. The share of industrial firms planning to expand, however, increased to 20.8% from 18.7%.

Businesses expected inflation and borrowing costs to rise and the peso to weaken over the next 12 months.

Their year-ahead inflation forecast remained at 5.6%, above the BSP's 2%-4% target range, reflecting expectations of further oil price increases and a prolonged Middle East conflict.

The July survey covered 506 companies nationwide and had a response rate of 48.8%.

Surveyors note the comparison is imperfect because the central bank suspended its survey during the strictest nationwide lockdown in 2020. Current pessimism is driven by Middle East tensions and higher oil prices rather than pandemic-related disruptions.

Assassinated Citizens August, 2026

Assassination is normal in the Philippines not only for government officials but also for regular citizens. The most common method of assassination for both citizens and officials is a motorcycle duo riding up on the target and then blasting them away. This series will document the number of citizens assassinated on a monthly basis. These stories are to be distinguished from regular murder cases which happen on a daily basis. 

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2275256/part-time-instructor-gunned-down-outside-bulacan-home

A 38-year-old part-time instructor was shot dead by an unidentified gunman outside his home in Sta. Maria town shortly after midnight on Thursday, July 30.

Col. Mark Louie Sigua, Sta. Maria police chief, identified the victim as Stephen Gelo Enriquez, a resident of St. Ville Subdivision in Barangay Poblacion.

Police said Enriquez had just arrived home and was about to get out of his vehicle at around 12:30 a.m. when a lone assailant, described as wearing a white bull cap, casually approached him from behind and opened fire.

Despite being wounded, Enriquez managed to shout for help, alerting his sister who was inside their house. She immediately rushed him to Bocaue Specialist Hospital, where he was later declared dead.

Investigators are conducting an extensive review of closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage in the area to identify and track down the suspect.

Sigua said police are pursuing all possible angles in the investigation and are not focusing on a single motive.

According to the police chief, Enriquez worked as a part-time instructor and previously served as barangay secretary. He was also the campaign manager of a barangay leader in Poblacion and actively volunteered in church activities.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/03/religious-leader-killed-in-agusan-del-sur-ambush

A religious leader was killed and a tribal member was wounded in an ambush in Barangay Rizal, San Francisco, Agusan del Sur on Friday afternoon, July 31.

Police identified the fatality as Pastor Balvino Andaya, 61, a leader of the Risen Christ Community Church, and the wounded as Avelino Cajandig, 59, a member of the Banwaon Manobo Talaandig Tribal Council (BAMATA-TC).

Investigation said the victims were traveling aboard a Mitsubishi Montero Sport from Barangay Del Monte, Talacogon, Agusan del Sur when two unidentified motorcycle-riding suspects opened fire at their vehicle.

The Sports Utility Vehicle veered off the road and crashed into a roadside sari-sari store.

The Police Regional Office-13 on Monday ordered an extensive investigation of the incident and manhunt against the suspects.

A case conference was held at the San Francisco Municipal Police Station (MPS) led by PRO-13 Director Police Brig. Gen. Marcial Mariano P. Magistrado IV where investigators presented updates on the circumstances surrounding the incident, evidence gathered, intelligence developments, and the progress of ongoing investigative and follow-up operations.

Andaya died from multiple bullet wounds. Cajandig sustained a bullet wound and being treated in an undisclosed hospital.

Recovered from the area were several fired cartridge cases and fired bullets. These pieces of evidence were submitted for forensic and ballistic examinations

PRO-13 Public Information Office chief Police Lt. Col. Jennifer S. Ometer said hot-pursuit and follow-up operations are in full swing. “Our ground personnel are in round-the-clock operation to solve this incident,” Ometer added.

Magistrado activated “Oplan: Cure” to further strengthen operational support and sustain the manhunt for the perpetrators.

“We assure the public that PRO-13 is exhausting all available investigative and intelligence resources to ensure the immediate identification and arrest of those responsible for this senseless act of violence,” Magistrado said.

“We also call on anyone with information that may aid the investigation to immediately coordinate with the nearest police station. Together, we can ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable under the law.”

Ometer said PRO-13 remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering swift, impartial, and thorough investigations while upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety and security of every community in the Caraga region.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2277024/makati-shooting-mom-dead-daughter-wounded

A 63-year-old mother was killed, and her 26-year-old daughter was wounded after they were shot by an unidentified man in Makati City, the Southern Police District (SPD) said Tuesday.

The perpetrator shot the pair near the corner of Makati Avenue and Durban Street in Barangay Poblacion early Monday night, according to the SPD.

“The victims were shot by an unidentified male suspect described as wearing a white shirt, maong shorts, and white shoes. The suspect immediately fled the area on foot after the incident,” the police said.

“At present, the identity of the suspect, the motive behind the attack, and other circumstances surrounding the incident remain under thorough investigation,” it added.

The victims were taken to the Makati Medical Center for treatment, but the mother was declared dead on arrival, the SPD noted.

The police did not identify either victim.

The SPD formed a special investigation team (SIT) to look into the incident.

“The SIT is working closely with all concerned units to maximize investigative efforts and expedite the identification and arrest of the suspect,” it said.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/05/indian-shot-dead-in-bacolod

An Indian national was shot dead by two motorcycle-riding gunmen in Purok Bayanihan, Barangay Villamonte here on Tuesday, Aug. 4.

Police Major Joeil Reclamado, head of Police Station 4, said the victim was found lifeless near his motorcycle with head injuries.

Reclamado said the victim was on his way home when he was reportedly tailed by the suspects.

A slug and three spent cartridges of an unknown firearm were recovered in the crime scene.

Reclamado said they are conducting follow-up investigation.

The Bacolod City Police Office strongly condemned the killing and urged people with relevant information to inform authorities so that justice may be served on the victim.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/754720/novena-disrupted-man-shot-dead-near-san-roque-talisay-chapel

A man was shot and killed near a chapel in Sitio Kimba, Barangay San Roque, Talisay City, on Thursday evening, August 6, 2026, disrupting the recitation of novena prayers there.

Barangay Councilor Boboy Chan said no one was able to identify the victim, who was wearing a t-shirt, pants, and shoes.

The victim, Chan said, allegedly came from Cordova town and was riding a habal-habal (motorcycle taxi.)

“On call lang ni siya ang rider nga gisakyan sa biktima. Posible nga kaila sila daan,” Chan said.

(The rider was on call for the victim. Perhaps they knew each other.)

When they arrived near the chapel, the habal-habal driver went to a store to ask for coins in place of bills.

The victim got off the motorcycle; suddenly, an unknown assailant shot him several times, hitting different parts of his body.

Chan said that residents who were offering a novena heard several gunshots, which disrupted their religious activity.

Residents then saw the victim lying on the ground, which prompted them to stop the novena.

According to Chan, the police recovered the victim’s cellular phone, toll fee receipt, and ₱100 in cash from his pocket.

The Talisay City Police Station is still investigating the incident.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2285933/46-year-old-man-shot-in-oriental-mindoro-town

A 46-year-old man was shot multiple times by an unidentified assailant early Monday morning in Barangay Sta. Rita, in Pinamalayan, Oriental Mindoro, police said.

The shooting occurred at 5:15 a.m. in a parking area beside a Christian church, according to the Pinamalayan Municipal Police Station.

Police said the victim, a resident of Barangay Sta. Rita, had just arrived at the parking area when he was shot. 

The Pinamalayan MPS received a report about the incident from a barangay official at around 5:20 a.m. Police said the identity of the suspect and the possible motive for the shooting had yet to be established. 

Acting Pinamalayan police chief PLtCol Christian P. Bermudez said the police station was exerting all efforts to identify and apprehend the suspect.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/17/delivery-rider-e-bike-driver-retired-soldier-killed-in-three-shooting-incidents

A delivery rider, an e-bike driver and a retired soldier were gunned down in separate shooting incidents here over the weekend.

On Saturday, 20-year-old delivery rider Alnasar Abdihadi  was found lying on the ground beside his motorcycle at Southcom Village in barangay Upper Calarian at 3:15am.

Abdihadi was a resident of the same village.

Investigation showed that the delivery rider was in Purok 2 when he was shot.

At 10pm on Saturday, an e-bike driver identified as Sabtar Mariwa was killed in Barangay Sta Barbara.

Investigators recovered eight spent shells from a .45-caliber pistol at the crime scene. Residents reported hearing a series of rapid gunshots prior to seeing Mariwa's bloodied body on the ground.

A follow-up operation conducted by Zamboanga City Police Station -14 led to the arrest of one of the suspects.

Meanwhile, a retired soldier operating a sand and gravel business was killed after being shot by still unidentified suspects while travelling along the highway of Barangay Sibulao on Friday afternoon, August 14.  

The victim was identified as Edwin D. Gracias, 54, a resident of Sitio Guinuman, Tagasilay.

Investigation showed that the victim was travelling on board his dump truck when he was shot.

Four fired cartridges of a Garand rifle were found at the crime scene.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/18/man-gunned-down-in-cebu-city

 A 39-year-old man died in a shooting incident here early morning Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Police identified the fatality as a certain Paolo, who was attacked by two unidentified assailants in Barangay Sambag 2 around 2:50 a.m.

Police said the victim was smoking a cigarette by the road when two men on a motocycle arrived. The backrider got off the motorcycle and approached the victim.

After seeing that the backrider was armed, Paolo ran but the assailant gave chase and was eventually able to gun him down.

The victim was declared dead when he was brought to the hospital. The assailants sped off after the attack.

Police said investigation is underway to possibly identify the assailants and determine the motive of the attack.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/20/batching-plant-supervisor-gunned-down-in-batangas

A 49‑year‑old batching plant supervisor was shot to death while drinking in front of his house Wednesday night, Aug. 19, in Purok 5, Barangay Rizal.

Police identified the victim as Elmer, an employee of Remix Batching Plant and a resident of the area.

He sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was declared dead on arrival at Divine Love Medical Center.

According to his son Emerson, Elmer was drinking with Van Allen Paul Garcia when four successive gunshots rang out.

Emerson rushed outside and saw his father lying on the ground while the gunman, wearing a hat, reloaded his firearm and fired twice more.

The suspect fled on a black motorcycle toward Barangay Calamias.

Police are investigating the killing.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/20/faith-healer-84-slain-in-negros-home

An 84‑year‑old faith healer was stabbed to death while sleeping beside his wife inside their house in Don Hermino Village, Barangay 1, E.B. Magalona, Negros Occidental, on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Police identified the victim as Bay, also a pedicab driver.

Police Master Sgt. Henry Mangana III said two unidentified men wearing bonnets entered the couple’s home and attacked Bay with a knife while he and his 67‑year‑old wife were asleep.

The victim sustained multiple stab wounds and was declared dead at a hospital. His wife suffered minor injuries to her hand when she tried to intervene.

Investigators are looking into whether the attack was connected to Bay’s work as a faith healer or to personal grudges.

Mangana noted the victim had no police record.

Authorities said the assailants targeted only Bay.

Police have yet to identify the perpetrators, with limited information available as the victim’s wife, the lone witness, is mourning her husband’s death.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/20/woman-shot-dead-in-antipolo-found-wearing-dog-tag

Authorities are hunting four suspects who allegedly gunned down a woman found wearing a dog tag in Antipolo City late Tuesday, Aug. 18. 

The Antipolo Component City Police Station said the incident occurred around 11:55 p.m. beside Seminario Church in Barangay Inarawan. 

Initial investigation showed the victim, still unidentified, was standing near the church on a dark, rainy night when four men aboard two motorcycles approached her. 

For no apparent reason, police said, the suspects opened fire with firearms of undetermined caliber before fleeing in an unknown direction. 

The victim was rushed to Mambugan Hospital but was declared dead on arrival. 

Authorities said she was found wearing a dog tag inscribed with the name “Aiza.” 

“The victim’s remains are subject to autopsy examination by the appropriate forensic authorities to determine the exact cause and manner of death and to assist in the ongoing investigation,” Antipolo police said in a statement. 

Investigators are working to establish the motive, identify the victim, and track down the suspects.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/21/homeowners-president-slain-treasurer-hurt-in-caloocan-shooting

A 55‑year‑old homeowners association (HOA) president was shot dead while the treasurer was wounded when a helmeted gunman entered their office and opened fire in Barangay 171, Bagumbong, Caloocan City, Thursday afternoon, Aug. 20.

The victims were collecting monthly payments from residents at around 3 p.m. when the gunman entered, according to a witness who was also inside.

The witness said they initially thought the man was a resident who had come to pay and waited for him to remove his helmet.

Instead, the suspect kept his helmet on, closed the office door, and opened fire on the HOA president and treasurer.

The president collapsed after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, while the wounded treasurer managed to call for help.

Yolly De Padua Misagal, VAWC officer of Barangay 171, confirmed that the HOA president was killed and the treasurer was injured and taken to a hospital for observation.

Barangay officials said the president had previously received death threats.

Misagal added that the victim’s house was also shot at after the pandemic, with three bullets reportedly fired.

The president survived that earlier attack and stayed in the province for some time before returning to Caloocan.

The gunman fled after Thursday’s shooting and remained at large as police continued to investigate the attack, including the suspect’s identity and motive.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2289661/couple-ambushed-in-maguindanao-wife-slain-husband-hurt

Unidentified gunmen riding tandem on a motorbike ambushed a couple along a bridge in Pagalungan town, Maguindanao del Sur, killing the wife and seriously wounding the husband, police said.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, speaking for police in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), identified the fatality as Colie Mar Fuscablo Saguta-o and her wounded husband, Orlan Turga Saguta-on, both farmers of Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City.

Salanguit said the victims were on board a red Suzuki multicab vehicle heading for Pikit, Cotabato from Kidapawan City when ambushed at about 10:55 a.m. Friday, August 21, while cruising the Pagalungan bridge.

The bridge serves as the boundary of Pagalungan town in Maguindanao del Sur and Pikit, Cotabato.

The attackers’ motives and identities remained unknown as of posting.

The ambush occurred as police authorities in the region are currently implementing the election gun ban in preparation for next month’s parliamentary balloting.

https://themindanaosentinel.com/2026/08/23-year-old-driver-killed-in-shooting-along-diversion-road-in-datu-odin-sinsuat-amid-election-gun-ban/

A 23-year-old driver was shot dead by an unidentified gunman while driving a motorized tricycle locally known as a “payong-payong” along Diversion Road in Barangay Capiton, Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte, on Thursday night, August 20, 2026.

The killing adds to continuing concerns over gun-related violence in the region despite the strict implementation of the election gun ban, which prohibits the unauthorized carrying and use of firearms during the designated election period.

Police identified the victim as Chopin Mohammad Blah, also known as “Makoy,” a married resident of Barangay Capiton.

According to the initial investigation, Blah was driving his payong-payong through the area at around 10:40 p.m. when the unidentified assailant suddenly opened fire at him. After the shooting, the gunman immediately fled the area and escaped in an undetermined direction.

Responding police officers recovered two spent cartridge cases at the scene, which were believed to have come from a .45-caliber firearm. The recovered evidence was secured as part of the ongoing investigation and may be subjected to further examination to help establish the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Blah was immediately rushed to the Cotabato Regional and Medical Center (CRMC) in Cotabato City for emergency medical treatment. However, he was declared dead on arrival by the attending physician.

Following the incident, the victim’s wife brought his remains to Barangay Katuli, Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, where his family prepared for his burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

The Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station has launched a continuing hot pursuit operation to identify and apprehend the gunman. Investigators are also working to establish the circumstances leading to the shooting and determine whether the victim had any known threats or disputes prior to the attack.

As of the latest police information, the motive remains unknown.

The shooting underscores the continuing challenge faced by authorities in preventing firearm-related crimes, particularly during periods when heightened security measures and restrictions on the movement and carrying of firearms are in effect. While the election gun ban is intended to help prevent violence and maintain public order, authorities continue to investigate how firearms are being possessed and used in criminal incidents.

Police have urged anyone who may have witnessed the shooting or who has information that could help identify the assailant to coordinate with the authorities. The investigation remains ongoing, and officials said further details will be released as they become available.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/23/former-ofw-shot-dead-in-car-in-negros

A 57-year-old former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) was shot dead inside his car during a fiesta in Barangay 1-A, Manapla, Negros Occidental on Sunday, August 23.

The victim was only identified by police as Mauro, a resident of Barangay 1-A, Manapla, who had a piggery business.

Police Capt. Marion Vincent Buenaflor, Manapla police chief, said the victim was with his wife who was seated in the passenger seat, when an unidentified gunman fired at the driver’s side.

The victim initially had a bullet injury to his left ear, and was declared dead in a hospital. His wife was unharmed.

Prior to the attack, Buenaflor said the shooter was seen reportedly standing at the roadside with his getaway motorcycle parked on the opposite side of the road with an unidentified driver.

Buenaflor said they could not divulge any further information for now due to the sensitivity of the case.

But, he said that they are looking into something personal as a possible motive.

The incident happened before noon on their way home.

Recovered from the crime scene were three fired bullets of an unknown firearm. Investigation is ongoing.

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/24/homeowners-president-slain-treasurer-wounded-in-caloocan-office-shooting

A 55-year-old homeowners association (HOA) president was killed while the group’s treasurer was wounded after they were shot inside their office in Barangay 171, Bagumbong, Caloocan City, Thursday afternoon, Aug. 20.

The Caloocan City Police Station (CCPS) reported that the victims were collecting monthly land payments from residents when a helmet-wearing man entered the office shortly after 3 p.m.

Based on the initial investigation, the suspect closed the office before shooting the HOA president and treasurer.

The president collapsed after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, while the wounded treasurer managed to seek help before the suspect fled.

The president was declared dead, while the treasurer was taken to a hospital for treatment and observation.

Authorities also learned that the slain HOA president had survived a previous shooting incident several years ago. Barangay officials said her house was fired at three times sometime after the pandemic, but she was not injured.

Following that earlier attack, the victim temporarily stayed in the province before returning to Caloocan.

As of this writing, police are investigating the motive and working to identify and locate the suspect. 

Authorities are also looking into whether the latest shooting is connected to the previous attack.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2291989/solar-panel-installer-shot-dead-in-maguindanao-del-norte

Unidentified gunmen shot dead a solar panel installer in Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte on Tuesday amid the gun ban for the Sept. 14 first Bangsamoro parliamentary elections.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) spokesperson, identified the victim as Merham Tugis Amilol, 26, a resident of Barangay Banubo, Sultan Kudarat.

Salanguit said Amilol was one of three men installing a solar panel system in a house along the national highway in Barangay Dalumangcob, Sultan Kudarat, when two men riding tandem on a motorbike arrived at 10:40 a.m.

Salanguit said one of the two suspects pulled out a pistol and shot Amilol, killing him instantly.

The attack came despite the strict implementation of the election gun ban along major highways in the Bangsamoro region.

Amilol was the 13^th individual killed in a gun attack in the two Maguindanao provinces since the implementation of the gun ban, in line with historic parliamentary elections in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim (BARMM) next month.

https://cebudailynews.inquirer.net/760823/masked-men-shoot-20-yr-old-e-bike-rider-inside-bedroom-in-brgy-pasil

A 20-year-old e-bike driver was wounded after masked gunmen stormed his residence and shot him inside his bedroom in Sitio Lawis, Barangay Pasil, Cebu City, around 4:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

Police identified the victim by his alias, “Chanoy,” a resident of the area who lives with his live-in partner and their two-year-old child.

According to initial police investigations and witness accounts, at least six suspects clad in black clothing and face coverings entered the three-story structure.

The intruders first went to the third floor, where they robbed a boarder of a mobile phone. Then they entered an adjacent room demanding money and phones, but left after the occupants stated they had nothing to give.

A witness identified as “Inday,” the victim’s sister-in-law, recalled that Chanoy heard aggressive knocking at his door.

“They already went ahead to the 3rd floor. Then they took the cellphone of one of our boarders."

"After going upstairs, they knocked on our door too. Then when we opened it, they asked us for our cellphones and money, but my mother, who was with me in the room, answered them, ‘We don’t have anything to give, we have nothing to do with you,’ so they immediately left."

Sensing danger, Chanoy instructed his partner not to open it and attempted to escape by leaping through a glass window onto a neighbor’s roof.

However, the suspects managed to breach the door and opened fire, hitting Chanoy in the thigh.

Five gunshots were heard during the ordeal, which occurred while the victim’s partner and toddler were inside the room.

Barangay Captain Francisco De Gracia Jr. disclosed that Chanoy had a history of local disturbances and held a prior barangay blotter record for leading troubled youth groups in the community.

“That person has long been known to be unruly and a troublemaker. He’s the leader of the youth around here.”

De Gracia added that the victim had been previously incarcerated multiple times for drug-related offenses: 

“He has already been jailed before, and as far as I know, it wasn’t just once."

Police authorities in Pasil confirmed that the victim was arrested in 2024 and again in March 2026, and investigators currently point to illegal drugs as the primary motive behind the bedroom attack.

The victim remains hospitalized and is scheduled to undergo surgery for his gunshot injuries. Meanwhile, law enforcement officers are reviewing local CCTV footage to identify and track down the perpetrators.

https://newsinfo.inquirer.net/2292045/man-shot-dead-in-front-of-horrified-wife-in-cotabato-city

A man settling a debt was shot dead in front of his horrified wife on Tuesday morning in Barangay Kalanganan 2 here, police said.

Col. Jibin Bongcayao, Cotabato City police director, identified the victim as Tulon Guinta Abas, a resident of Barangay Tamontaka Mother, also in this city.

Abas and his wife went to Barangay Kalanganan 2 to settle their financial obligation with a lending firm when an unidentified suspect, armed with a .45-caliber pistol, shot him in front of his wife at 8:15 a.m.

He died on the spot, while the suspect fled on a motorcycle.

The wife told police that her husband was also subjected to a gun attack on April 8 in Barangay Tamontaka Mother but survived unharmed. She said she had no idea who was behind the attack.

Abas was immediately laid to his final resting place on Tuesday afternoon in accordance with Islamic beliefs.

He was the 14th individual killed in a gun attack in the Maguindanao provinces since the implementation of the gun ban on July 16, 2026, in line with next month’s Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao parliamentary elections.

 

https://mb.com.ph/2026/08/28/college-student-killed-girlfriend-wounded-in-ilocos-norte-shooting

A 24-year-old college student was killed while his girlfriend was wounded when they were shot by a motorcycle-riding gunman in front of their residence in Barangay Uguis here Thursday night, August 27.

Police identified the fatality as alias "Jay,” a resident of Sitio Tres, Barangay Uguis.

His girlfriend, also a college student, and a resident of Burgos, Ilocos Norte, suffered gunshot wounds in the leg and abdomen.

Police said the victims had just arrived home at around 7:30 p.m. when a 19-year-old suspect, a resident of the same barangay, allegedly approached them on a motorcycle and fired four shots from a still unknown firearm

Jay sustained multiple gunshot wounds. He and his girlfriend were rushed to a hospital in Sinait, Ilocos Sur, but he was declared dead upon arrival.

The suspect is now the subject of a hot-pursuit operation.

The Nueva Era police are continuing their investigation and awaiting the SOCO findings.