MATALAM, Cotabato — A Barangay Peace Action Team (BPAT) member was injured after unidentified gunmen hurled a grenade at an LGU dump truck carrying BPAT personnel along the national highway in Matalam, Cotabato, early afternoon on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Police identified the victim as Danny Boy Alqueza Villanueva, 36, a BPAT member and resident of Barangay Estado, who sustained injuries to the head and face after being struck by shrapnel. He was immediately rushed to the New Cebu District Hospital in President Roxas for medical treatment.
Riding-in-Tandem Assailants
Based on initial police investigation, around 1:30 p.m., at least 18 to 20 BPAT members were on board a barangay-issued dump truck, heading home to Barangay Estado after attending a local government activity where they were set to receive their incentives.
Upon reaching Purok 3, Barangay Manubuan, near the COTELCO area, the group was suddenly overtaken by two armed men on a motorcycle. One of the suspects allegedly hurled a grenade toward the dump truck, which struck Villanueva in the face.
Due to the force of the throw, the grenade was deflected out of the vehicle and landed on the highway, where it exploded moments later, narrowly missing the other passengers.
No other BPAT members were reported injured.
EOD, SOCO Probe Underway
The Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team (EODT) of North Cotabato conducted a post-blast investigation at the scene and recovered disintegrated metal fragments confirmed to be from a hand grenade. Soil samples were also collected by the Provincial Forensic Unit for laboratory examination.
The recovered evidence is now under police custody for further analysis.
PNP Condemns Attack
In a statement, the Matalam Municipal Police Station (MPS) strongly condemned the attack, calling it a “senseless and cowardly act” that endangered civilian lives and disrupted public safety.
“Acts of violence have no place in a peaceful community. This incident will be addressed through lawful and decisive police action,” the police said.
Authorities have intensified security measures, police visibility, and intelligence monitoring in the area to prevent similar incidents. Coordination has also been made with Matalam Mayor Oscar Valdevieso regarding the incident.
Community on Edge After Series of Attacks
The grenade attack comes just days after a New Year’s Day blast in Barangay Dalapitan, Matalam, which injured at least 22 residents during fireworks celebrations, further heightening fears in the community.
As of this writing, the suspects remain at large, and the motive behind the attack has yet to be established. Police are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.
The Philippine National Police assured residents that it remains steadfast in its commitment to protect lives, uphold peace and order, and bring the perpetrators to justice.