THE Cotabato City Police Office (CCPO) is now looking for the person who fired a gun during the Christmas lighting ceremony around 6:20 p.m. Tuesday, December 6, 2022, in Cotabato City.
A series of gunshots caused fear to those who attended the lighting ceremony.
CCPO Director Colonel Querubin Manalang said there were only a few moments left for the "countdown" for the lighting of the Christmas lights in the City Plaza when a gunshot was heard.
Those who attended the program quickly ran away from the venue, mostly children who participated in the contest.
Escorts immediately secured Cotabato City Mayor Datu Mohammad "Bruce" Matabalao, city councilors, deputy mayors, and other guests and took them to a safe place.
The police, soldiers, and Special Weapons and Tactics (Swat) personnel quickly responded, but the shooter was able to escape.
Several spectators were hurt due to the chaos caused by the shooting incident.
Matabalao called on those who got hurt, especially the children, the elderly, and the women to inform his office for immediate assistance.
"Sama-sama tayong patuloy na magdasal para sa katiwasayan ng mahal nating lungsod (Let's continue to pray together for the safety of our beloved city)", the mayor said.