A tragic incident unfolded on 28 December 2024, when a reportedly intoxicated police officer went on a shooting spree in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato, leaving one dead and two injured.
The suspect, Police Corporal Alfred Dawatan Sabas, assigned to General Santos City, allegedly opened fire inside a passenger bus, killing Reynaldo Bigno Jr., a security guard. Initial reports indicate that Bigno succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head.
The violence escalated when Sabas encountered police personnel manning a checkpoint in Barangay Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur. Instead of surrendering, Sabas allegedly shot two on-duty officers, Police Corporal Kenth Maurith Pamaos and Patrolman Russel Love Tapia, who sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital. Sabas fled the scene but was later apprehended in a hot pursuit operation. Authorities confirmed that his live-in partner was on the bus during the initial shooting.
In the aftermath, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Order, dispatched his Malasakit Team to provide immediate support to the victims and their families. The team visited the injured officers on 3 January, delivering cash aid and other essentials.
The first visit took place at the Digos Doctors Hospital, where aid was handed over to Tapia’s wife, Marden Rose Tapia, on his behalf. The team then proceeded to Pamaos' home in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur, where he personally received similar assistance.
Expressing his condolences and condemning the incident, Senator Go said, “Napakasakit na ang mga dapat sanang nagpoprotekta sa atin ay nagiging sanhi ng karahasan. Sisiguraduhin nating mabibigyan ng hustisya ang biktima at maaalagaan ang mga nasugatan.”
("It is deeply painful that those who are supposed to protect us become the cause of violence. We will ensure that justice is served for the victim and that the injured are properly cared for.")
The families of the victims expressed gratitude for the senator’s swift response during this challenging time.
Meanwhile, local authorities confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, and charges of murder and frustrated murder are being prepared against Sabas. The Philippine National Police (PNP) has issued a statement strongly condemning Sabas' actions and assured the public of a transparent legal process.
Senator Go emphasized the need for accountability and reforms within the police force. “Dapat lang na managot ang mga may sala. Kasabay nito, kailangang magpatuloy tayo sa pagsusulong ng mga programang poprotekta at magpapabuti sa kapakanan ng lahat ng Pilipino,” he said.
("Those who are at fault must be held accountable. Alongside this, we must continue promoting programs that protect and improve the welfare of all Filipinos.")