VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon — A well-known rice trader was shot dead inside his own store in Barangay Poblacion on Saturday afternoon, January 17, 2026, marking another gun-related incident that has heightened public concern over safety in the city.
Police identified the victim as Michael Cloma Actub, 45, married, and a resident of Purok-6, Barangay Batangan. Actub, described by acquaintances as the owner of a prominent rice trading business in Bukidnon, was tending to his shop along Guinoyuran Road—near the corner of Guillermo Laviña Avenue and Carlos Fortich Street—when the shooting occurred at around 5:30 p.m.
Initial police reports said the assailant, described as a male with a heavy build wearing a green jacket, suddenly approached the victim and fired at close range. The gunshot reportedly struck Actub in the head. He collapsed inside the store, leaving blood stains on the tiled floor. He was rushed to a nearby private clinic but was declared dead on arrival.
Witnesses said the suspect immediately fled the scene aboard a motorcycle, believed to be a Kawasaki Bajaj, heading toward the western part of Valencia City. A hot pursuit operation was immediately launched by the Valencia City Police, while the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) were requested to process the area and recover ballistic evidence.
Authorities have yet to establish the motive behind the killing. However, investigators said they are looking into several angles, including possible personal disputes, jealousy, and conflicts linked to the victim’s business dealings. Police stressed that all leads remain open as they work to identify and arrest the suspect.
The fatal shooting adds to a growing list of gun-related incidents recorded in Valencia City in recent months, renewing calls from residents for tighter security measures, intensified police patrols, and stronger action against illegal firearms. The police assured the public that they are strengthening intelligence operations to prevent further violence and bring those responsible to justice.