KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato (April 9, 2026) — A 40-year-old tricycle driver was shot Thursday afternoon in a brazen attack that occurred just near the Provincial Headquarters of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in Barangay Morales, raising fresh concerns over public safety in the area.
The victim, identified only as “Alyas Jo,” a resident of Maibo, Tantangan, South Cotabato, sustained gunshot wounds after being ambushed at around 3:25 p.m. along Purok Alegria. He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have yet to release his full identity pending notification of his family.
According to initial reports and eyewitness accounts gathered by Radyo BIDA, at least three gunshots were heard moments before the victim’s tricycle came to a halt at the roadside. Residents initially thought it was a road accident, but were shocked to discover that the driver had been shot when they approached to help.
Investigators believe the suspects, described as riding-in-tandem and wearing jackets, had been tailing the victim prior to the attack. The gunmen reportedly fled toward the direction of Tantangan shortly after the shooting.
Miraculously, the passenger onboard the tricycle at the time of the incident was unharmed.
Police authorities are still working to determine the type of firearm used in the attack and the identities of the assailants. A follow-up investigation is ongoing, with crime scene operatives continuing to gather physical evidence and review possible leads.
The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, though authorities are exploring several angles, including personal disputes and possible targeted killing.
The incident, which unfolded in close proximity to a major police facility, has intensified calls for heightened security measures and swift justice for the victim.
Anyone with information related to the case is urged to coordinate with local authorities as the investigation progresses.