Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines – A New Year celebration turned tragic when a member of the Special Civilian Armed Auxiliary (SCAA) was shot and killed during a gathering in Barangay Poblacion, Sominot, Zamboanga del Sur.
The victim, identified as Bernardo Ganar, 35, a resident of Golictop, Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur, was reportedly an escort of Sominot Mayor Johnriel Melo. According to the police, Ganar was celebrating the New Year with friends when an argument broke out with a companion, identified as Jason, 51.
The altercation escalated, leading Jason to draw a firearm and shoot Ganar in the head. The incident occurred at around 12:01 p.m. on January 1, 2025, just as the New Year celebrations were in full swing.
Authorities said Ganar was rushed to a hospital in Pagadian City but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Lt. Col. Rolando Vargas Jr., commander of the 53rd Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, confirmed that Ganar was also assigned to a detachment in Balunay, Midsalip.
The suspect, Jason, a resident of Sominot, was apprehended by local police and is currently detained at the Sominot Municipal Police Station. Charges are being prepared against him, according to Col. Restituto Pangusban, Director of the Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office.
The victim’s family is now crying out for justice, as investigators continue to determine the motive behind the fatal shooting.
This incident casts a shadow over what should have been a joyous New Year celebration in the community.