DAVAO Metro Shuttle Corporation (DMS), a Mindanao-based bus company, announced plans to enhance security measures on all its vehicles following a tragic shooting on December 28, 2024, that claimed the life of a passenger.
The incident took place in Barangay Sto. Niño, Carmen, Davao del Norte, during a scheduled bus trip from Tagum City to Davao City. The bus was temporarily halted for hours after two assailants boarded and shot dead a 54-year-old businessman, identified as "Taytay."
In a statement, DMS assured the public that passenger safety and comfort are their top priorities, stating, “We are doing our best to further strengthen our protocols to ensure a secure and comfortable journey ahead. Amping ta kanunay (Stay safe).”
While the Davao del Norte Police continue their investigation, Carmen Municipal Station Officer-in-Charge Captain Dennis Agosto shared on December 30 that witnesses suggested the suspects had a motive to target the victim, as they appeared to be after his personal belongings. Passengers reported that the suspects fled the scene on a motorcycle after the shooting.
Agosto described the event as an "isolated case," underscoring that it doesn't follow any specific pattern.
Authorities are now conducting an intensive manhunt after identifying potential suspect features through CCTV footage from the bus.
Davao de Oro Vice Governor Oyo Uy condemned the act as "heinous" and urged the public to remain vigilant.
“We highly encourage the cooperation of everyone. We sincerely condemn this heinous act and we will not stop until justice is served,” Uy said. DEF
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