MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon – A supposed friendly evening drinking session among neighbors turned into a horrifying tragedy after one man was killed and two brothers were seriously injured in a stabbing incident at Purok 1, Barangay Kalasungay, on December 29, 2025.
Police identified the fatality as Oliver Sigod, 55. The injured victims were brothers Amelito Maghinay, 57, who remains in critical condition, and Pedrito Maghinay Jr., 32. All three are laborers and residents of the area.
The suspect was identified as Jason Galolo, 30, a close neighbor and friend of the victims.
Suspect fled to the mountains
Authorities said they received the emergency call at about 8:20 p.m., prompting police and the Search and Rescue (SAR) Team to respond. Upon arrival, rescuers found three victims already rushed to the hospital while Sigod lay lifeless outside the Maghinay brothers’ house, soaked in his own blood.
According to initial police investigation and witness accounts, the victims were drinking together when the suspect—believed to be under the influence of alcohol—unexpectedly joined the group. A previous misunderstanding between the suspect and one of the brothers resurfaced, sparking a heated argument.
The suspect reportedly left but returned around 8:00 p.m. armed with a knife, then violently attacked the group—stabbing Oliver in the chest, and wounding the two brothers in the back, neck, and arm. He immediately fled the scene, escaping toward the nearby mountainous area.
Community in shock, family in grief
Residents described the victims and the suspect as friends and neighbors, whose homes were separated only by a small creek. The brutal nature of the attack left the community rattled and demanding justice.
The mother of the slain victim expressed deep grief and disbelief over the sudden loss of her son, whom she described as hardworking and peaceful.
Barangay officials and police continue to conduct a hot pursuit operation as they gather more information that could lead to Galolo’s immediate capture and reveal the true motive behind the violent crime.
Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing that cooperation is vital to prevent the suspect from harming others.