KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Two men were wounded after a heated argument over firecrackers escalated into a shooting on New Year’s Day evening in Barangay Caloocan, Koronadal City.
Police identified the primary victim as Federico, 47, a married tricycle driver and resident of the barangay. The second victim, “John Mark,” 22, also a resident of the same area, was hit by a stray bullet. The shooting occurred at around 7:20 p.m. on January 1, 2026, in Purok Maligaya/Purok 6, according to the Koronadal City Police Station.
Initial police investigation revealed that the suspect, identified by the alias “Nonoy” (also referred to as “Mark” in initial reports), was allegedly under the influence of alcohol while lighting and igniting firecrackers in front of the victims’ house. Federico reportedly reprimanded the suspect for the loud noise, which triggered a verbal altercation that quickly turned violent.
At the height of the confrontation, the suspect allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Federico, hitting him in the left waist/hip area. John Mark was also struck by a bullet in his right hand after being caught in the incident. Both victims were rushed to the South Cotabato Provincial Hospital, where they are now reported to be in stable condition.
The suspect fled the scene immediately after the shooting. Authorities have launched a manhunt and dragnet operation to track him down, while further investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the incident and the firearm used.
Police reminded the public to avoid alcohol-fueled confrontations, especially during celebrations, stressing that minor disputes can quickly escalate into deadly violence.