MALANGAS, Zamboanga Sibugay — Violence marked the opening hours of 2026 after a farmer was shot dead during a New Year’s celebration in Barangay San Vicente, Malangas, on the night of January 1.
Police identified the victim as Romel Bornea Largo, 40, married, a farmer and resident of Purok 2, Barangay San Vicente. He was fatally shot while seated on a bench amid a year-end party in the community.
The suspect was identified as Ramil, 42, married, self-employed, and a resident of Barangay Poblacion, Malangas.
Based on the initial police investigation, the incident occurred at around 9:00 p.m. during the barangay’s New Year celebration. Witnesses said the suspect allegedly called out to the victim before suddenly pulling out a firearm and shooting him in the head, causing his instantaneous death.
Authorities said the victim and the suspect were seen arguing moments before the shooting, exchanging heated words that eventually escalated into deadly violence.
After the shooting, the suspect reportedly fled the scene, escaping toward Barangay Logpond, Malangas, aboard a white Honda Click motorcycle.
Police said the initial motive behind the killing appears to be an intense personal altercation between the victim and the suspect, although further investigation is ongoing to determine if other factors were involved.
The Malangas Municipal Police Station (MPS) has launched a hot pursuit operation and continues to coordinate with neighboring police units to locate and arrest the fleeing suspect.
Authorities urged the public to remain calm and immediately report any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest, as they assured that efforts are being intensified to bring justice to the victim and his family.