MATI CITY, DAVAO ORIENTAL — A businessman was robbed at gunpoint after two armed men riding a motorcycle reportedly approached him outside his motorcycle parts shop in Don Luis, Barangay Central, Mati City, on the evening of September 21, 2026.
The incident, which was captured by a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera, happened at around 7:20 p.m. and showed two men, both allegedly carrying firearms, suddenly approaching the victim while he was near his vehicle.
The suspects reportedly pointed their guns at the businessman before forcibly taking his necklace.
According to the victim, Jacob Redulla, the necklace taken from him was worth approximately ₱300,000.
Redulla said the suspects also appeared to be attempting to take another piece of jewelry, but they reportedly fled before they could take it after his wife emerged from their vehicle and shouted for help.
“Dali-dali bira ako necklace ug ghulatan nila ako bracelet, kaso wa na nila mahulat kay nagdali na sila og sibat kay nigawas ako Mrs. sa sakyanan, nangayo og tabang,” Redulla recounted.
He said the incident left him shocked, particularly because the suspects allegedly pointed two firearms at him during the robbery.
Redulla described the experience as traumatic and warned other residents and business owners to remain vigilant, particularly when wearing expensive jewelry in public places.
He also urged people to exercise caution because, according to him, the incident happened despite the presence of other people in the area.
“Kamo, ayaw sa mo’g suot-suot sa inyong alahas karong panahona kung naa mo sa gawas. Dili safe hangtod dili ni sila masikop,” he said.
The businessman said the incident has affected his sense of security and expressed concern that other residents could potentially become victims if the suspects remain at large.
He also appealed to fellow business owners to take additional precautions and remain alert against possible robbery incidents.
Despite the frightening experience, Redulla expressed gratitude that he, his wife and their baby were not physically harmed.
“Dako akong pasalamat sa Ginoo sa among mga kinabuhi nga wala mi unsaa gabii, ako, akong asawa ug baby,” he said.
The CCTV footage is expected to be useful in the ongoing identification and investigation of the suspects. Authorities have yet to publicly confirm the identities of the two men or whether they have been arrested.
The incident also highlights the risks faced by business owners and other residents during armed robbery incidents, particularly when suspects use firearms to intimidate victims.
Authorities are expected to continue reviewing the CCTV footage and gathering information that could lead to the identification and arrest of those responsible.
For now, residents and business owners in the area are being urged to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious persons, motorcycles or activities to the police.