LEBAK, Sultan Kudarat — A 44-year-old farmer was killed in an alleged bolo attack following a heated argument during a drinking session in Sitio Lanao, Barangay Keytodac, Lebak, Sultan Kudarat, at around 12:45 p.m. on October 18, 2026.
The victim, identified only by the alias “Toper,” reportedly sustained fatal injuries after another farmer, identified as alias “Harley,” 27, allegedly attacked him with a bolo during their altercation. Both men were residents of Sitio Lanao, according to the initial report of the Lebak Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Police said the two farmers had been drinking together when a heated argument broke out. The disagreement allegedly escalated into violence, with the younger man reportedly striking the victim in the neck with a bolo. The victim succumbed to his injuries.
The incident was reported to the Lebak MPS by a concerned citizen at around 2:10 p.m., prompting police personnel to immediately dispatch an alert team and an investigator to verify the report and conduct an initial investigation.
Authorities subsequently confirmed the incident and began gathering information to establish the circumstances that led to the fatal confrontation.
The suspect reportedly surrendered at the Barangay Hall of Barangay Keytodac and was taken into police custody. Investigators are continuing their inquiry to determine the full sequence of events and establish the details surrounding the alleged killing.
Police have yet to disclose further details about what triggered the argument or whether other individuals witnessed the incident. The allegations against the suspect remain subject to the ongoing investigation and the appropriate legal process.
Police Regional Office 12 Regional Director PBGEN Alan B. Manibog underscored the importance of exercising restraint and resolving disagreements peacefully, particularly during drinking sessions and emotionally charged confrontations.
The incident serves as a reminder of how disputes can escalate into deadly violence when tempers flare and restraint gives way to aggression. Authorities continue to urge the public to avoid confrontations, exercise sound judgment, and seek peaceful ways to settle personal disagreements.
Further investigation is underway as police work to establish the complete circumstances of the incident and pursue the appropriate legal action.