POLOMOLOK, South Cotabato — A soldier assigned to the Philippine Army is now under police custody after a fatal shooting that killed a member of the LGBTQIA+ community early Sunday morning, March 1, 2026, inside a diner along the national highway in Barangay Poblacion.
Authorities identified the suspect as Private First Class Ronie Bendisula Jr., a member of the 6th Infantry Battalion, who was immediately arrested by responding personnel from the Philippine National Police through the Polomolok Municipal Police Station.
The victim was identified as Ariel Peligro, 47, a resident of Barangay Lam Caliaf and an employee of a local company. Community sources and acquaintances confirmed that Piligro was part of the LGBTQIA+ community. He was rushed to a hospital after sustaining gunshot wounds to the back and chest but was declared dead on arrival.
Shooting Inside Establishment
Police said the shooting occurred at around 1:50 a.m. at Stopover Diner in Barangay Poblacion. Initial investigation indicated that the suspect allegedly fired a gun inside the establishment, hitting the victim.
Witness accounts relayed to investigators said the incident happened suddenly while customers were inside the diner. Authorities are still working to determine what triggered the shooting.
Crime scene investigators recovered a Glock 17 pistol believed to have been used in the attack, along with its magazine containing five bullets. Another magazine loaded with 15 rounds was also found, as well as four empty 9mm shell casings at the scene.
The suspect was also brought to a hospital after he was subdued and reportedly assaulted by several customers following the shooting before being taken into police custody.
Military Confirms Involvement of Soldier
The 1st Mechanized Infantry (Maaasahan) Brigade confirmed that the suspect is one of its personnel and said it is fully cooperating with authorities in the investigation.
Brigadier General Omar V. Orozco, commander of the brigade, assured the public that the military will support efforts to ensure accountability and justice.
“This isolated case does not reflect the discipline, professionalism, and values upheld by the men and women of the Philippine Army,” Orozco said, adding that the command is coordinating with the police and higher headquarters of the army to ensure due process.
Calls for Justice and Transparent Investigation
Authorities said the investigation remains ongoing as police continue gathering statements from witnesses and reviewing evidence to determine the motive behind the shooting.
Meanwhile, the incident has drawn attention in the community, with calls for a thorough and transparent probe to ensure justice for Peligro, whose death has shocked residents and members of the local LGBTQIA+ community.