A farmer was found dead early Saturday morning in what police describe as a brazen shooting in a secluded area of Midsayap, North Cotabato, adding to growing concerns over gun violence in the province.
The lifeless body of Marlon Dalisay Bayo, 38, was discovered by residents at around 6:15 a.m. on December 13, 2025, along an irrigation canal in Purok Euphorbia, Sitio Bubunao (Bobonao), Barangay Agriculture, Midsayap. Bayo, a married man and father of three, was a resident of the town and worked as a farmer.
According to the Midsayap Municipal Police Station, Bayo sustained multiple gunshot wounds to the head, back, abdomen, and both legs, which resulted in his immediate death. Investigators recovered three spent shell casings from a .45 caliber firearm at the crime scene, indicating the victim was shot at close range.
Residents living near the area told police they heard several successive gunshots before dawn but were unable to identify the assailant due to darkness and the remoteness of the location. Barangay officials believe the suspect may have been personally known to the victim, noting that Bayo appeared to have been ambushed in a non-populated area, suggesting the attack was deliberate and planned.
Police also disclosed that Bayo had previously been jailed for violations of Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. However, his family insists that he had already served his time and had since returned to a quiet life.
In an interview, Jennelyn Bayo Cabarles, the victim’s sister, said the family believes personal grudge may have motivated the killing. She acknowledged that rumors and accusations had circulated against her brother but maintained that these were untrue. While confirming his past drug-related case, she stressed that Bayo had already paid his dues and was trying to rebuild his life for his family.
The family is now appealing for justice as authorities continue their investigation and manhunt for the suspect. “We are asking for prayers,” the family said, expressing hope that those responsible for the killing will be held accountable.
The incident underscores persistent security challenges in parts of North Cotabato, as police urge anyone with information about the shooting to come forward and assist in bringing justice to the victim and his grieving family.