MALAYBALAY CITY, Bukidnon — Four individuals, including a nine-year-old child, were injured in a shooting incident believed to be driven by retaliation in Purok 8, Barangay Mabuhay, San Jose on the night of April 6, 2026.
According to a report from the Bukidnon Police Provincial Office, the victims — a 45-year-old man, a 41-year-old woman, a 30-year-old man, and a minor — were immediately rushed to the Bukidnon Provincial Medical Center by the Barangay Rescue Team for medical treatment.
Initial police investigation revealed that the victims were gathered by the roadside, engaged in casual conversation, when they heard a gunshot at around 9:00 p.m. The group reportedly dismissed the first shot, believing it to be harmless. Moments later, another gunshot rang out, striking all four victims.
Authorities believe the weapon used was an improvised firearm loaded with buckshot, based on the nature of the victims’ injuries. The 45-year-old sustained a gunshot wound to the right arm, the 41-year-old was hit in the neck area near the nape, the 30-year-old suffered a wound to the left buttock, while the minor was struck in the right leg.
Doctors attending to the victims confirmed that all are now in stable condition but remain under close observation in the hospital.
Police are currently pursuing a retaliation angle, following reports of a prior dispute between one of the victims and a neighbor the night before the incident. Authorities said the earlier confrontation may have escalated into violence.
In an interview with local media, a relative of one of the victims disclosed that tensions had been brewing between the families involved, prompting plans to bring the matter before barangay officials. However, the shooting occurred before any mediation could take place, injuring even those not directly involved in the conflict.
A witness who was present at the scene recounted that they initially thought the gunfire came from a “lantaka” or improvised noisemaker. Panic ensued when successive gunshots were heard and several people collapsed. Residents fled the area in fear for their lives.
The Bukidnon Police confirmed that a person of interest has already been identified, and efforts are underway to locate and arrest the suspect. The Provincial Director has also ordered the Malaybalay City Police Station to expedite the investigation.
Meanwhile, the victims’ families are appealing for increased security measures, citing fears of possible follow-up attacks.
Authorities assured the public that operations are ongoing to ensure justice for the victims and prevent further violence in the community.