Magpet, Cotabato – A senior citizen and retired teacher who now sells balut to support her daily needs fell victim to theft after a group of young men stole her tray of balut in Barangay Poblacion, Magpet, on Tuesday night.
According to the vendor, she noticed several youths loitering and riding motorcycles near where she was selling. Moments later, one of them suddenly grabbed her laton (balut tray) and sped away. Fortunately, the suspects failed to take her earnings, which she had kept separate, sparing her from further loss.
“I just laughed it off because there were only two balut left in the tray when they took it,” the elderly woman shared, though he admitted she was saddened that such acts would target an old man striving to make ends meet.
Witness John Pacete expressed dismay over the incident. “It’s heartbreaking to see youths targeting an elderly person who is simply working hard to earn a living,” he said.
Concerned citizens attempted to chase the suspects but were unable to catch them. Authorities have yet to identify the culprits.
The incident has sparked outrage in the community, with residents condemning the act and calling for accountability, especially as the victim is a respected retired teacher who continues to work despite her age.