CHRISTMAS celebration in Northern Mindanao was generally peaceful, except for some stabbing and other minor incidents recorded, a police official said Thursday, December 26, 2019.
A 23-year-old man died shortly at the hospital after being stabbed several times while on his way to a church in Tambacan, Iligan city, just a few hours before Wednesday, December 25.
The victim was identified as Armando Sarsaba Jr. while the suspect was known as Nanding Alcano.
Investigation disclosed that the victim and his common-law wife were on their way to the church when they came across the suspect who was believed to be drunk.
The suspect stabbed the victim on the lower portion of his ear, left elbow, left portion of his back and left side of his chest.
Operatives are now pursuing the suspect.
In Bukidnon, a 57-year-old man identified as Garciano Dahinlay was allegedly stabbed by Rogelio Vallente in Impasug-ong town past midnight.
Police said the two were having a drinking spree at the victim's house when they suddenly had a heated misunderstanding.
Lieutenant Colonel Mardy Hortillosa, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office (PRO)-Northern Mindanao, said there were also stoning, hacking and other minor incidents but the investigation is still ongoing.
"Nevertheless, these incidents can't affect the peaceful Christmas celebration of the general public,"Hortillosa said.
On the other hand, PRO-Northern Mindanao recorded zero firecracker-related incidents as well as illegal possession, use and sale of firecrackers, stray bullets, illegal discharge of firearms and fire, among others.
PRO-Northern Mindanao Director Brigadier General Rolando Anduyan commended his men for maintaining peace and order during the Christmas celebration.