Two coast guard personnel killed in Cotabato City shooting

Two Philippine Coast Guard sailors were killed in a brazen daylight attack in Cotabato City on Thursday, police said. The shooting took place along Roman Vilo Street in Poblacion 6 at midday, targeting the uniformed personnel in a populated area. The victims were identified as Seaman Second Class Reniel Agpalo, from Nueva Ecija, and a second sailor whose details were still being compiled by authorities. The station chief was unharmed in the incident.

Capt. Steffi Salanguit, spokesperson for the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, confirmed the fatalities and said initial investigations were underway to identify the two gunmen responsible for the attack. The motive for the shooting remained unclear as of Thursday evening. Security forces launched a manhunt for the suspects.

The shooting marks another incident of violence targeting state security personnel in the Bangsamoro region. Authorities have intensified efforts to maintain order in Cotabato City amid ongoing security concerns.