A 56-year-old farmer died after being shot while trying to break up a fight between his neighbors in Sityo Kadoldolan, Barangay General Climaco, Toledo City, on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at around 5:30 p.m.
The victim was identified by police as Juan Engaling, married, and a resident of Sityo New Bucao in the same barangay. He sustained a gunshot wound to his back, which caused his immediate death.
The suspect has been identified as Eduardo Macapas Abadiano, 47, a construction worker and also a resident of the area.
Prior to the shooting, Engaling was drinking with his neighbor, Saniboy Rabago, also a construction worker. At that time, the suspect Abadiano, who had a prior grudge against Rabago, passed by. The suspect had been drinking as well.
When Abadiano saw Rabago, he suddenly drew his firearm. In self-defense, Rabago punched the suspect. Seeing the escalating conflict, Engaling intervened to stop the fight and separate the two.
However, as Engaling stepped in, the suspect fired his weapon. Instead of hitting Rabago, the bullet struck Engaling in the back. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead on arrival.
Authorities are conducting a manhunt for the suspect, who fled after the incident.
