MALUNGON, Sarangani Province — A 36-year-old person with disability (PWD) was killed after being stabbed during a gambling session at a wake late Friday night, March 27, 2026, in a remote village in this town, police said.
The victim was identified as Remwel Barrera, also known as “Poloy,” a resident of Sitio Lamcanal, Barangay Malandag. He sustained a fatal stab wound to the abdomen following an altercation with a fellow resident identified only by his alias “Bobot,” 46.
According to a report from the Malungon Municipal Police Station (MPS), the incident occurred at around 10:30 p.m. while a group of individuals were engaged in a game of tong-its during a wake in Purok 6 of the said sitio.
Initial investigation revealed that tensions flared after the suspect allegedly lost in the card game. In a fit of anger, he reportedly slammed the table, triggering a commotion among those present. The argument quickly escalated, culminating in the suspect stabbing Barrera.
The victim suffered a severe wound in the stomach and was immediately rushed to a hospital in General Santos City for emergency treatment. However, attending physicians declared him dead on arrival.
Authorities launched a hot pursuit operation shortly after the incident, leading to the swift arrest of the suspect within the same locality. He is now under police custody and is set to face appropriate criminal charges.
Police continue to investigate the incident, including the circumstances surrounding the gambling activity during the wake. Officials also urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid engaging in heated disputes, especially in emotionally charged settings such as funeral gatherings.