DAVAO ORIENTAL, Philippines — A 32-year-old mining team leader was shot dead on Monday morning, March 16, in what authorities are now investigating as the second mining-related killing recently reported in the province of Davao Oriental, raising fresh concerns over security in mining areas.
The victim was identified as Ryan Malagdao Patuar, 32, a resident of Sitio Banhawan in Barangay Marayag, Lupon, Davao Oriental. Patuar, who worked as a miner and farmer and served as a team leader in a local mining operation, sustained seven gunshot wounds after being attacked by an unidentified assailant.
According to initial police reports, the shooting occurred at around 9:20 a.m. when authorities received information about a gunfire incident in the area.
Personnel from the Lupon Municipal Police Station – Marayag Sub-Station, led by PSSg Edmhyr T. Dalire under the supervision of PMAJ Ian Mar S. Polestico, immediately responded to the scene. They were joined by the Second Platoon headed by PCPL Ariel Buano and members of RPSB Cluster 15 led by PCMS Labor.
Upon arrival, responding officers confirmed the killing and began securing the area while launching an investigation and dragnet operations to identify and arrest the suspect or suspects responsible for the attack.
Authorities said the victim’s belt bag was missing following the shooting, although the family reportedly does not yet know what items were inside it.
Police said the investigation remains ongoing to determine the motive behind the killing, including whether the incident is directly connected to the victim’s work in the mining sector.
Barangay officials issue statement
Following the incident, the Barangay Council of Marayag, through Punong Barangay Joselito O. Lemindog, released a statement expressing concern over the killing.
According to the barangay council, the shooting reportedly occurred outside the official area of responsibility (AOR) of the barangay, but local officials nevertheless urged residents to remain vigilant.
The barangay also extended its condolences to the family of the victim, who was also a resident of the community.
Family mourns loss, calls for justice
In a social media post, a cousin of Patuar described the victim as a hardworking and responsible family member who played a crucial role in supporting his relatives.
“Early in the morning, he went out to continue his daily livelihood, not knowing that a painful fate was waiting for him ahead,” the family member wrote.
According to relatives, Patuar had helped his younger siblings finish their studies, with some already becoming professionals.
Family members also said he had effectively served as a father figure in the household, especially after their own father passed away.
The family appealed for justice, urging authorities to ensure that the perpetrator is held accountable.
“No life deserves to be taken in such a senseless way,” the post said.
Rising concerns over mining-linked violence
The killing of Patuar is being viewed by local observers as the second mining-related killing reported in Davao Oriental in recent days, highlighting persistent tensions and security risks in areas where small-scale and informal mining activities take place.
Mining communities in parts of Davao Oriental and neighboring Davao de Oro have long faced issues such as disputes over mining claims, illegal mining operations, and competition for access to mineral-rich areas.
Authorities have yet to confirm whether personal conflict, robbery, or mining-related disputes played a role in the killing.
Police said further investigation is ongoing as they gather evidence and track down possible suspects.
Meanwhile, the family and community continue to mourn the loss of a man remembered as a hardworking provider whose life was cut short by violence.