A festive celebration in a remote village in Bukidnon turned violent after a stabbing incident left two men injured late Friday night, April 24, 2026.
Police identified the victim as an adult male resident of Sitio Pantaron, Barangay Gandingan, in the municipality of Pangantucan. The suspect, meanwhile, is a resident of Upper Marabog, Barangay Lantay in the same town.
Initial investigation by the Philippine National Police revealed that the incident occurred at around 11:00 p.m. during a disco and drinking session as part of the barangay fiesta in Sitio San Vicente.
Authorities said the victim was seated and drinking with friends when the suspect suddenly appeared. Without warning, and allegedly driven by a long-standing personal grudge, the suspect stabbed the victim in the chest using a knife.
Despite sustaining a serious wound, the victim managed to fight back. In an act of self-defense, he struck the suspect in the head with a stone, resulting in injuries to both men.
Responders rushed the two to the Pangantucan Medical Hospital before they were later transferred to the Bukidnon Provincial Hospital in Maramag for further treatment. As of the latest report, the victim remains under medical observation, while the suspect has been placed under hospital arrest.
Investigators recovered from the crime scene a blood-stained knife believed to have been used in the attack, along with its scabbard. Authorities are continuing their probe to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police noted that both individuals were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the altercation, which may have contributed to the escalation of violence.
Oliver Navales, provincial director of the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, urged the public to exercise restraint, particularly during celebrations involving alcohol.
“Let this serve as a reminder that we must remain vigilant and avoid letting emotions take over, especially when intoxicated. Cooperation from the community is key to maintaining peace and safety in Bukidnon,” Navales said.
What was meant to be a night of celebration ultimately ended in bloodshed, underscoring the risks of unresolved conflicts and alcohol-fueled confrontations during public gatherings.