LANTAPAN, Bukidnon — Public concern over safety intensified in the town of Lantapan after two women, including a public school teacher, were injured in separate but related bottle-throwing incidents allegedly committed by intoxicated youths riding a motorcycle late Monday night.
One of the victims, Bbaishalee Barete, a teacher, shared on social media that she and a fellow female companion were walking home after attending Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) and Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) activities at Lantapan National High School when they were suddenly attacked. The incident happened at around 11:30 p.m. in Purok 6, Barangay Balila, when youths believed to have come from the poblacion deliberately threw a glass bottle at them, causing injuries to Barete’s leg.
Barete appealed to residents with access to CCTV footage to help identify the suspects, stressing that her post was motivated by concern for public safety and not anger. “This is not out of rage, but out of love for peace and safety in our community,” she said.
Another female victim was also reported injured in a similar bottle-throwing incident near the Lantapan Public Market, prompting the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Lantapan to strongly condemn the acts, which authorities described as reckless and dangerous.
In response, Lantapan Municipal Mayor Ricky James Balansag called on the public to immediately report any information that could lead to the identification and arrest of those responsible. The mayor offered a reward of up to ₱30,000 or a motorcycle for credible information leading to the suspects, emphasizing that the reward would come from his personal funds, not government resources.
“This initiative is meant to encourage community cooperation, help law enforcers, and prevent more innocent people—especially women—from becoming victims,” the mayor said, adding that the objective is justice and public safety, not vigilantism.
The mother of the teacher-victim also posted an emotional appeal online, condemning the attack and pleading for witnesses to come forward after seeing the injuries sustained by her daughter.
Police confirmed that a suspect has already been identified and is currently under active investigation, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and review possible CCTV footage. Mayor Balansag personally joined law enforcers during the investigation.
Authorities warned that bottle-throwing can result in serious physical injury or death and vowed to intensify patrols, particularly at night. Residents were urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to ensure that Lantapan remains safe for everyone.