Three individuals were injured after unidentified gunmen opened fire in Barangay Kitabog, Titay on the night of May 7, 2026, triggering fear among residents and prompting an ongoing police manhunt for the suspects.
Initial police investigation revealed that the victims were at a Lotto outlet in Purok San Francisco when armed suspects suddenly approached and started shooting without warning.
Authorities identified the primary target as Arnold Tik-ing, an adult resident of the area. Witnesses told local media that Tik-ing was seated outside a roadside store when a Bajaj motorcycle carrying two unidentified men suddenly stopped nearby. The back rider allegedly drew a firearm and immediately shot the victim.
Tik-ing reportedly sustained gunshot wounds to the back portion of his body and attempted to flee despite being wounded. However, the assailants allegedly continued firing, causing additional injuries to his chest and legs.
Two other individuals, identified as Roselito Calago and Ope Elepe, were also hit by stray bullets while reportedly playing “Swertres” near the Lotto outlet during the attack. One victim sustained a gunshot wound to the leg, while the other suffered injuries to both legs.
All three victims were immediately rushed to a hospital for medical treatment. Due to the severity of his injuries, Tik-ing was later referred to a larger medical facility for further care and monitoring.
Police authorities in Titay have launched a continuing investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting and identify the perpetrators, who managed to flee after the incident. Hot pursuit operations and follow-up investigations are ongoing.
The violent attack has left residents in Barangay Kitabog shaken, with many expressing fear over the brazen shooting that occurred in a public area late at night. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are underway to track down those responsible and restore security in the community.