MIDSAYAP, COTABATO — A 46-year-old KTV bar owner was shot by his armed companion on the evening of September 17, 2025, in Purok 7, Barangay San Isidro, Midsayap, Cotabato.
The victim, identified only by the alias Balot, a resident of Barangay Villarica, was riding his motorcycle along the road when the suspect suddenly approached and shot him past 7:00 p.m., according to an initial police report.
Despite being hit in the ear, Balot was still able to ask for help from residents who immediately rushed him to a nearby hospital. Investigators said the victim managed to identify the suspect before losing strength.
Authorities disclosed that the victim and the gunman were close friends who were often seen together on drinking sessions and night outs. Following the shooting, the suspect fled in the direction of the Special Geographic Area (SGA) of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The Midsayap Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the 34th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army, has launched a hot pursuit operation to track down the suspect.
Police have yet to determine the motive behind the attack, but an investigation is ongoing.