DAVAO CITY — A man was injured after he was allegedly shot by his own friend in Toril District on Sunday morning, July 12, in what authorities believe stemmed from a lingering personal dispute involving the alleged poisoning of a dog.
The shooting occurred at around 8:00 a.m. in Central 2, Barangay Binugao, Toril District, sending shockwaves through the quiet community.
Barangay Kagawad Rogelio “Dodong” Mayda, who was among the first responders to the incident, said the suspect allegedly lay in wait for the victim before carrying out the attack.
According to Mayda, the victim, identified as Edwin Katayao, a resident of the area, was walking toward a nearby store when he was suddenly confronted and shot by the suspect, identified as Bernard Banlasan, who is reportedly Katayao’s close friend.
Katayao sustained a gunshot wound to the lower part of his body. Residents immediately sought assistance, allowing the victim to receive medical attention. His current condition has not yet been disclosed by authorities.
Following the shooting, Banlasan reportedly fled the scene aboard a tricycle before responding law enforcement officers arrived. A manhunt operation has been launched to locate and arrest the suspect.
Initial information gathered by barangay officials indicates that the two men had been involved in an ongoing conflict prior to the incident.
Mayda revealed that Banlasan had previously approached him to report his suspicion that Katayao was responsible for poisoning his pet dog. The allegation allegedly fueled resentment between the two friends and is now being considered as the possible motive behind the attack.
Police investigators are continuing their probe to establish the full circumstances surrounding the shooting and determine whether additional evidence or witnesses can support the initial findings.
Authorities are also urging the suspect to surrender peacefully and are appealing to anyone with information regarding his whereabouts to immediately coordinate with the nearest police station.
The incident serves as another reminder of how unresolved personal disputes can quickly escalate into violence, underscoring the importance of seeking lawful and peaceful means to settle conflicts before they result in tragedy.