MATALAM, Cotabato — What should have been a joyful celebration of the New Year turned into a terrifying night of bloodshed when a hand grenade was hurled at a group of residents welcoming 2026 in Barangay Dalapitan, leaving at least 22 individuals injured, many of them children.
The explosion ripped through a crowd gathered near the national highway in Purok Ipil-Ipil shortly after midnight on January 1, according to initial reports from the Matalam Municipal Police Station. Witnesses said two men riding a black motorcycle slowed down near the group before throwing the grenade and speeding off into the darkness.
Local officials, police responders, and emergency personnel rushed the victims to nearby hospitals, including the Mlang District Hospital. Many sustained shrapnel wounds in various parts of their bodies.
Among those hurt were identified as Ronald Alejo, Cedric Ron Alejo, Sunny Santillan, Marco Alejo, and Mark Ethan Pejero, while authorities are still verifying the identities of the others injured.
Authorities Condemn the Attack
Cotabato Governor Emmylou “Lala” Taliño-Mendoza condemned the bombing in the strongest terms, calling it a cowardly act against innocent civilians celebrating the holiday.
She ordered law enforcement units to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice, while also assuring immediate medical and financial assistance for the wounded.
Security Forces Intensify Hunt for Suspects
The Philippine National Police and military intelligence units under the 602nd Infantry Brigade have launched a manhunt, implementing a flash alarm and dragnet operations around Matalam and nearby towns. Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams and Scene of the Crime Operatives also conducted forensic examinations at the blast site.
Authorities are looking into whether the attack was targeted, with reports claiming the suspects may have aimed at the residence of the Alejo family near the celebration area. The motive remains under investigation.
A Violent Start to the New Year
The grenade attack has sparked fears of renewed violence in Central Mindanao, a region with a history of armed conflict and sporadic terror-linked incidents.
Local officials have increased security visibility across Cotabato as shaken residents demand justice and assurance of safety during what should have been a celebration of new beginnings.
As the first dawn of 2026 broke over Matalam, the chilling blast served as a grim reminder that peace remains fragile—and violence can strike even in moments of joy.