KORONADAL CITY — A retired member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines was wounded after being ambushed and shot multiple times by unidentified assailants in a brazen midday attack on Friday, May 1, 2026, in Barangay Concepcion.
The victim was identified as Rommel Aguilar, a resident of Barangay Tamnag in Lutayan, Sultan Kudarat. Initial police investigation by the Koronadal City Police Office revealed that Aguilar was driving his tricycle from the city proper en route to Purok Marcos when he was waylaid at around 12:00 noon.
According to Barangay Kagawad Bobby Castillo, the suspects—riding two motorcycles—reportedly lay in wait at a corner before opening fire on the victim. Aguilar was hit at least five times, sustaining gunshot wounds to the neck and face.
Despite the severity of his injuries, Aguilar survived the attack and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is now reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities said the assailants fled the scene immediately after the shooting, prompting an ongoing hot pursuit operation. Investigators are currently working to identify the suspects and establish the motive behind the attack.
Koronadal City Mayor Erlinda “Bing” Araquil strongly condemned the incident, stressing that criminality has no place in the city. In a decisive move to expedite justice, the mayor announced a ₱100,000 cash reward for anyone who can provide information leading to the identification and arrest of those responsible.
“Walang lugar sa Koronadal City ang mga kriminal,” Araquil said, urging the public to cooperate with authorities in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
The shooting, which occurred in a residential area at the height of midday activity, has raised concerns among residents, prompting calls for heightened security and vigilance in the city.
Police continue to gather evidence, including possible CCTV footage from nearby establishments, as part of their intensified investigation.