KIDAPAWAN CITY, Cotabato Province — A former police K9 handler and his female companion were killed in a daring daylight shooting that unfolded in Purok 6, Barangay Lanao, Kidapawan City, on the afternoon of January 4, 2026, sending shockwaves through the community.
Police identified the fatalities as Romel Pason Canson, an adult male, former K9 handler and resident of Kanapia Subdivision, and Crystylmae Taniongon Nuñez, a resident of River Park Subdivision. Canson was declared dead on the spot after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds, while Nuñez was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival despite desperate efforts to save her.
Initial investigation revealed that the victims were on board a Mitsubishi Mirage, traveling along the barangay road of Purok Mangosteen en route to Barangay Balindog, when they were suddenly ambushed. An unidentified suspect, reportedly riding a black Nissan Almera, opened fire repeatedly before fleeing toward Barangay Balindog. Other reports indicate the possible involvement of two suspects, a detail still being validated by investigators.
Responding units from the Kidapawan City Police, including the SWAT Team and crime scene investigators, immediately secured the area and conducted an ocular inspection. A large-scale manhunt operation is now underway as authorities work to identify and apprehend the suspect or suspects, while also determining the motive behind what police described as a calculated and targeted attack.
The investigation is being led by PLTCOL Argie S. Celeste, Acting Chief of Police of Kidapawan City. Police authorities are appealing to the public to cooperate and report any information that could help resolve the case. “Any detail, no matter how small, could be crucial in delivering justice for the victims,” police officials stressed.
As of this writing, the motive remains unclear, and no arrests have been made. The brutal incident adds to growing concerns over gun violence and public safety, as residents mourn the sudden and violent loss of two lives in what should have been an ordinary afternoon.