TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte — Police arrested a 26-year-old man on October 17, 2026, in connection with the killing of a 33-year-old LGBTQ+ community member whose body was discovered in a vacant lot in Barangay Apokon, Tagum City, earlier that day.
The suspect, identified as Andrey Bonggo Ibañez, a resident of Barangay Kinablangan, Baganga, Davao Oriental, was apprehended during a hot pursuit operation inside the Davao Regional Medical Center (DRMC) at around 9:30 a.m. Police said he was at the hospital, where his father was confined.
The victim, identified as Jovith Pecante, also referred to as “Jovith” in police accounts, was a resident of Barangay Madaum, Tagum City. His body was found in the early hours of October 17 at a vacant lot in Purok 4, Barangay Apokon, near the hospital. Initial findings indicated that he had sustained severe head injuries, allegedly after being struck with a heavy object believed to be a stone or a piece of concrete.
Tagum City Police Station chief PLt. Col. Edgardo G. Bahan said investigators identified Ibañez after a witness reportedly pointed to him as the last person seen drinking with the victim at a store near DRMC.
Investigators subsequently conducted a hot pursuit operation that led to the suspect’s arrest. Police also recovered the victim’s cellphone and personal belongings allegedly belonging to the suspect, some of which reportedly bore bloodstains. These items are expected to form part of the evidence being examined in the investigation.
Alleged dispute preceded killing
Based on the initial police investigation and the suspect’s reported account, the incident allegedly stemmed from a disagreement following a drinking session.
Investigators said the suspect claimed he had agreed to engage in sexual activity with the victim in exchange for ₱1,000. According to the suspect’s account, the victim allegedly failed to pay the agreed amount, triggering an argument that reportedly escalated into a fatal assault.
The suspect also reportedly told investigators that he had only recently arrived in Tagum City to look after his hospitalized father. He allegedly admitted to using illegal drugs on some occasions, although this claim remains separate from the evidence needed to establish responsibility for the killing.
After the incident, the suspect allegedly returned to the hospital with several items, including clothing, a cellphone, a charger and money. He reportedly said he had been unable to sleep properly because of fear and anxiety over what had happened.
Authorities have yet to establish in court the full circumstances surrounding the killing. The suspect’s reported statements and the alleged motive remain subject to verification through the ongoing investigation and judicial proceedings.
Suspect in police custody as family seeks justice
Ibañez is currently in the custody of the Tagum City Police Station and is expected to face the appropriate criminal charges in connection with the killing.
Police said the arrest followed the gathering of evidence from the crime scene and information provided by witnesses. Investigators are expected to continue examining the recovered items and other available evidence to establish the sequence of events and determine the circumstances that led to the victim’s death.
Meanwhile, the victim’s family and friends are calling for justice for Jovith.
The killing has renewed concerns over the safety and protection of LGBTQ+ community members. While investigators work to establish criminal liability, the case underscores the importance of a thorough, evidence-based investigation and accountability for acts of violence, regardless of a victim’s sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.
The suspect remains entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty by a court of law.