A grenade blast in a North Cotabato carnival killed one man and left five other individuals injured mere minutes before the new year.
The explosion occurred at around 11:50 PM, in Sitio Condring, Barangay Marbel, said Matalam Vice Mayor, Ralph Ryan Rafael.
The victim, identified by police as Romel Presto Cabiso, 30, was standing at the spot where the fragmentation grenade was thrown by an unknown suspect. The five suffered shrapnel injuries.
“Sad to say, this heartbreaking incident happened just before the New Year—a time that should be filled with hope, joy, and togetherness,” Rafael said.
“The family of the victim deserves answers, and our community deserves to feel safe,” he also stated in an interview on Wednesday.
Fortunately, the grenade detonated in an uncrowded area, said the Provincial Director of North Cotabato, PCOL Gilberto Tuzon.
Cotabato Governor Emmylou Taliño-Mendoza promptly directed officers to launch an investigation into the identity of the bombing culprit, and assured the provision of aid for Cabiso’s children and his burial.
“Let this serve as a reminder that peace is not the responsibility of one individual but the duty of us all. We must stand together, united by our desire for a safe and harmonious community,” Rafael said.
