ALABEL, SarangANI PROVINCE — Grieving children are calling for justice following the brutal killing of their mother, a 40-year-old school utility worker, who was allegedly stabbed multiple times by her own husband inside the compound of the school where she worked Wednesday evening.
The victim, identified as Mary Grace Guinang, a utility worker at Alegria Central Elementary School in Barangay Alegria, was declared dead on arrival at the Sarangani Provincial Hospital after sustaining multiple stab wounds.
Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, her husband Willy Guinang, who fled the scene after the attack.
According to Police Lt. Col. Benjie Ancheta, chief of the Alabel Municipal Police Station, the incident occurred at around 6 p.m. behind the school building where the victim was working.
Initial investigation showed that Guinang was with one of her children at the time and had gone behind the school to retrieve laundry when the suspect suddenly appeared.
“Kalit mitumaw ang suspek ug giluba ang biktima makadaghang higayon,” Ancheta said, adding that the suspect immediately fled toward an unknown direction after the stabbing.
The victim was rushed to the Sarangani Provincial Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival due to the severity of her injuries.
Children recount terrifying ordeal
In an emotional account, Jophet, the couple’s second child, said their father suddenly arrived at the school where the family also stayed and attacked their mother without warning.
According to him, jealousy was a recurring issue in their parents’ relationship.
“Seloso kaayo among amahan,” Jophet said, recalling the moment his father stabbed his mother.
History of domestic conflict
Police said the killing may have stemmed from long-standing domestic disputes between the couple.
Ancheta revealed that investigators learned the suspect had previously physically abused the victim, suggesting a history of domestic violence in the household.
Authorities are also considering jealousy as the possible motive behind the killing.
“The couple already had an existing conflict before the incident,” the police chief said.
Manhunt underway
Police have launched a hot pursuit operation to locate and arrest the suspect, who remains at large as of this writing.
Authorities urged the public to report any information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.
Family calls for justice
Meanwhile, the victim’s children are pleading for justice for their mother, describing her as a hardworking woman who dedicated her life to supporting their family through her job at the school.
They also expressed fear and grief over the violent loss of their mother inside a place they considered safe.
The tragic killing has shocked residents of Barangay Alegria, with community members condemning the act and calling for accountability.
Police said charges for murder or parricide are being prepared against the suspect once he is arrested.
Authorities also reminded the public that domestic violence remains a serious crime, urging victims and families experiencing abuse to seek help from local authorities and support services before conflicts escalate into tragedy.