IN a harrowing turn of events on December 28, 2024, a bus passenger was fatally shot by a reportedly intoxicated police officer in Barangay Batasan, Makilala, North Cotabato. The suspect, PCpl Alfred Dawatan Sabas, who is assigned to General Santos City, allegedly fired his gun inside the bus, killing a passenger identified as Reynaldo Bigno, Jr., a security guard.
According to initial reports, Bigno succumbed to a gunshot wound to the head.
The situation escalated when police personnel manning a checkpoint in Brgy. Kinuskusan, Bansalan, Davao del Sur tried to disarm him. Instead of surrendering, he allegedly opened fire on two on-duty officers, PCpl Kenth Maurith Pamaos and Pat. Russel Love Tapia, who were both injured and rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Sabas fled the scene but was apprehended during a subsequent hot pursuit operation. Authorities disclosed that his live-in partner was present on the bus during the initial incident.
In response to the tragedy, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Vice Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Public Order, sent his Malasakit Team to extend immediate support to the victims and their families. During separate visits on January 3, the team provided cash aid, tupper pack and other essentials.
“Napakasakit na ang mga dapat sanang nagpoprotekta sa atin ay nagiging sanhi ng karahasan,” Senator Go said. “Hindi natin ito papabayaan. Sisiguraduhin nating mabibigyan ng hustisya ang biktima at maaalagaan ang mga nasugatan.”
The first visit took place at the Digos Doctors Hospital, where assistance was handed over to Tapia. Tapia’s wife, Marden Rose Tapia, received the items on his behalf.
The Malasakit Team also visited Pamaos at his home in Magsaysay, Davao del Sur. Similar aid was provided, which Pamaos personally received.
The families of the victims expressed gratitude for the swift assistance, acknowledging the senator’s efforts to address their immediate needs during a difficult time.
Meanwhile, local authorities confirmed that the investigation into the incident is ongoing, with murder and frustrated murder charges being prepared against Sabas. The Philippine National Police (PNP) issued a statement condemning the actions of the officer and assuring the public of transparency in the proceedings.
Senator Go emphasized the importance of accountability and reform in 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.
