DAVAO CITY — A 44-year-old pedicab driver is currently under medical observation after being shot in front of a church in Barangay Governor Duterte, Agdao District, early Wednesday morning, February 11, 2026.
The victim was identified by police as Nilo Goc-ong Mahusay, also known as “Nil,” a resident of Purok AQ in Barangay Governor Duterte. He was immediately rushed to the Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) after sustaining a gunshot wound to his right jaw.
Incident Occurred Before Dawn
According to the Davao City Police Office (DCPO), the shooting happened at around 4:10 a.m. along Holy Cross Drive, directly in front of San Antonio de Padua Parish.
At the time of the incident, Mahusay was operating his pedicab with a passenger identified as Rowel Bucasi Lirasan, 52, a street sweeper. Lirasan told authorities that while they were passing by the church, he suddenly heard a loud gunshot.
Moments later, Mahusay stopped driving. Lirasan then noticed blood flowing from the victim’s right jaw, realizing that he had been shot.
Suspect Believed to Be Riding a Motorcycle
Initial police investigation indicates that the gunman remains unidentified and is believed to have been riding a motorcycle when the attack was carried out. The shooting appeared sudden and unprovoked, with no prior altercation reported between the victim and any suspect.
Authorities are still determining whether the attack was targeted or random.
Evidence Recovered at the Scene
Responding police officers recovered a fired cartridge case believed to be from a .45 caliber firearm at the crime scene. The evidence has been turned over to the Davao City Forensic Unit for ballistic examination to help identify the weapon used and possibly link it to other crimes.
Victim in Stable Condition
Mahusay was rushed to SPMC by concerned individuals and emergency responders, where he is now under close medical monitoring. Hospital authorities have yet to release detailed information on his condition, but police confirmed that he is receiving proper treatment.
Police Continue Investigation
The Davao City Police have launched a follow-up investigation to establish the motive behind the shooting and to identify and arrest the suspect. Investigators are reviewing nearby CCTV footage and interviewing possible witnesses in the area.
Authorities also appealed to the public for cooperation, urging anyone with information related to the incident to report to the nearest police station.
Renewed Calls for Public Safety
The incident has raised concerns among residents, especially since it occurred near a place of worship and during early morning hours when workers and commuters are already on the streets.
Police assured the public that they are intensifying patrols in Agdao and nearby areas to prevent similar incidents and to maintain peace and order.
As the investigation continues, authorities vow to bring justice to the victim and hold those responsible accountable under the law.