MALUNGON, SARANGANI PROVINCE — A minor dispute over a “bihag” or bagged fighting cock escalated into one of the most horrifying killings in recent memory, after a man was brutally hacked, mutilated, and disemboweled by his neighbor on Sunday afternoon, November 30, in Sitio Talisay, Barangay Talus.
Police identified the victim as Vic Rodel Comaling, 45, of Sitio Talisay. The suspect, Edmon Intenza, 30, a resident of Sitio Bagong Silang Cawayan, was arrested shortly after the incident and is now detained at the Malungon Municipal Police Station.
According to investigators, Comaling was sitting at the store of his brother-in-law around 3 p.m. when Intenza passed by carrying a fighting cock he had won from a local derby. The victim reportedly asked for a share of the chicken, but the suspect ignored him. Comaling jokingly remarked that Intenza was “madamot” for refusing to give him any.
Minutes later, Intenza allegedly returned armed with a bolo and launched a frenzied assault on the unsuspecting victim.
Police said Intenza slashed the victim’s neck, severed both hands, and cut open his abdomen, causing his internal organs to spill out. Responders rushed Comaling to the hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival due to the extensive injuries.
Authorities immediately pursued and apprehended Intenza, who surrendered without resistance.
Initial investigation confirmed that the fatal attack was triggered solely by the brief exchange over the “bihag” na manok. Murder charges are now being prepared against the suspect.
Police condemned the killing as an extreme and senseless display of violence, urging the community to allow the justice process to take its course.