Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte — A retired police officer was declared dead on arrival at a local hospital after a violent confrontation involving gunfire and a hand grenade in Barangay San Remigio, Kaputian District, Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS) Thursday night, February 26, 2026.
Authorities identified the suspect as Edwin Malinao, 54, a retired policeman. Police reports indicated that Malinao went to the residence of his niece, Juvelyn Mantos Malinao, 37, where an argument escalated into violence. During the dispute, Malinao shot the victim in the right thigh.
Responding officers, led by PLTCOL Jerry H. Abrogina, ACOP, immediately arrived at the scene around 8:40 PM and attempted to negotiate with the suspect. However, Malinao reportedly remained aggressive, continued firing his .45-caliber pistol, and pulled the pin on a hand grenade he was carrying. The grenade posed an imminent threat to officers and nearby civilians.
Police were forced to act in self-defense and public protection. During the ensuing exchange, Malinao attempted to fire at the officers but was neutralized. The hand grenade fell and exploded, inflicting severe injuries on the suspect. Despite being rushed to a medical facility, he was declared Dead on Arrival at 12:11 a.m. on February 27.
The victim was initially treated at Davao del Norte Hospital – IGACOS Zone and later referred to Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) for further care.
Recovered from the scene were a .45-caliber pistol with live rounds, three spent shell casings, and fragments of the exploded hand grenade, including the lever and fuse.
PCol. Glenn Cristines, Provincial Director of Davao del Norte Police Office (DNPPO), urged the public and social media users to avoid spreading unverified information about the incident, emphasizing that the confrontation was a family dispute and posed no general threat to the public.
Authorities confirmed that the prompt police response prevented further casualties, highlighting the importance of immediate and decisive action during armed confrontations. The investigation remains ongoing.
The Island Garden City of Samal Police Station reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring public safety, noting that swift action was necessary to neutralize the imminent threat.