A violent grenade attack shattered New Year's Eve celebrations in North Cotabato, leaving a dozen people injured, according to police reports on Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Midnight Attack Disrupts Celebration
The incident occurred precisely around midnight in Purok Ipil-Ipil, Barangay Dalapitan, Matalam, North Cotabato. A group of residents had gathered for a roadside New Year's revelry when the assault happened.
Police reports indicate that two unidentified individuals on a motorcycle were responsible. One of them threw a grenade into the midst of the merry-making crowd before both suspects sped away from the scene immediately.
Victims Rushed to Hospital, Investigation Ongoing
The explosion caused shrapnel wounds to twelve revelers. Emergency responders rushed the injured to various hospitals in the area for immediate medical treatment. Authorities have not yet released the condition of the victims.
Investigators from the Philippine National Police are actively pursuing leads to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. The motive behind the attack remains unclear at this early stage of the probe.
Top Cop Condemns "Cowardly Act"
Police Brigadier General Arnold Ardiente, the regional director of the Soccsksargen (Region 12) police, issued a strong statement condemning the attack.
"This cowardly act of violence, perpetrated by still unidentified suspects, shows utter disregard for human life and public safety," Ardiente said.
He emphasized that targeting innocent civilians during a time of celebration is an unacceptable criminal act that will not go unpunished. The general assured the public that all necessary police actions have been mobilized to locate and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The community of Matalam is now grappling with the aftermath of the attack, which turned a night of festivity into one of trauma and fear.
