LIBUNGAN, Cotabato Province — A 20-year-old woman was killed after she was allegedly stabbed while attempting to intervene in a heated family dispute in Purok Rose, Barangay Barongis, Libungan, Cotabato on the evening of June 8, 2026.
The victim was identified as Roshelle Shane Flores Asuque, a single woman and resident of the area. She was rushed to a hospital in Libungan after sustaining a stab wound to the left side of her chest but was declared dead on arrival by attending physicians.
Authorities arrested the suspect, identified only by the alias “Timo,” 56 years old, a farmer, and also a resident of Purok Rose, following a swift police operation.
According to the investigation conducted by the Libungan Municipal Police Station (MPS), the incident stemmed from a heated argument between the suspect and his niece, identified as alias “Inday.” The confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical altercation, during which the suspect allegedly attacked and choked his niece.
Police said Asuque stepped in after witnessing her sibling in danger and attempted to pacify the situation. However, instead of calming down, the suspect allegedly turned his aggression toward the young woman and stabbed her with a bladed weapon.
The stabbing occurred at around 9:10 p.m., sending shockwaves through the quiet community. Residents immediately sought help as the victim collapsed from the severe injury.
Responding officers from the Libungan MPS quickly proceeded to the scene after receiving reports of the incident. A hot pursuit operation was immediately launched to locate the fleeing suspect.
Authorities later tracked down and arrested “Timo” while he was hiding near a riverbank approximately 30 meters from the crime scene. He was taken into police custody, underwent a medical examination, and was subsequently placed in a detention facility pending legal proceedings.
Investigators recovered evidence related to the incident and are currently conducting a thorough investigation to establish all circumstances surrounding the fatal stabbing.
Police said the suspect will face appropriate criminal charges through inquest proceedings. Authorities are preparing a murder or homicide case, subject to the findings of prosecutors and investigators.
The tragic death of Asuque has left family members, friends, and residents of Barangay Barongis mourning the loss of a young woman whose final act was reportedly an attempt to protect a loved one and prevent further violence.
The Libungan Municipal Police Station assured the public that justice will be pursued and urged residents to seek peaceful means of resolving conflicts to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.