PAGALUNGAN, MAGUINDANAO DEL SUR / PIKIT, COTABATO — A woman was killed while her husband was critically wounded after unidentified gunmen opened fire on their multicab along a bridge connecting Pagalungan, Maguindanao del Sur, and Barangay Inug-ug in Pikit, Cotabato, on the morning of August 21, 2026.
The victims were identified as Orlan Saguta-on and his wife, Colie Mar, reportedly residents of Aleosan, North Cotabato. Other initial information indicated that the couple had ties to Barangay Amas, Kidapawan City.
According to the initial police report, Orlan was driving a red multicab bearing plate number MAN 3117 when the attack occurred. The vehicle was reportedly carrying coconuts and was traveling from Barangay Amas toward Barangay Takepan, where the couple was supposed to deliver coconut seedlings.
As they reached the bridge along the Pagalungan-Pikit National Road, unidentified suspects reportedly approached the multicab while riding a motorcycle and opened fire at the vehicle.
The gunfire struck both Orlan and Colie in various parts of their bodies. Colie sustained fatal gunshot wounds and was declared dead after the attack, while Orlan survived but suffered serious injuries and was rushed to a medical facility for treatment. His condition was reported to be critical.
The suspects immediately fled the area after the shooting, prompting authorities to launch a hot pursuit operation in an effort to locate and arrest those responsible.
Police investigators are continuing to establish the circumstances surrounding the attack, including the identities of the gunmen, their possible motive and the route they took while escaping.
Authorities have yet to determine whether the couple was deliberately targeted or whether the shooting was connected to another incident. Investigators have not released a definitive motive as the case remains under active investigation.
The shooting has raised fresh concerns over the safety of motorists and passengers traveling along the Pagalungan-Pikit road, particularly in areas where communities are connected by major bridges and isolated stretches of roadway.
Investigators are expected to interview witnesses and examine available evidence from the scene as they build a case against the perpetrators. Police are also continuing their pursuit operation while coordinating with other units in nearby areas to prevent the suspects from escaping further.
The fatal shooting adds to the continuing security concerns in parts of Central Mindanao, where armed attacks along roads and other public areas remain a serious challenge for law enforcement.
Authorities are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or may have information on the identities or whereabouts of the suspects to immediately coordinate with the police.
The hot pursuit operation and investigation remain ongoing, while Orlan continues to receive medical treatment for his critical injuries.