Businessman Shot Dead at Home Raises Insurgency Concerns in Negros Occidental

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD City – Recent investigations into the death of a prominent businessman in Barangay Bug-ang, Toboso, Negros Occidental have raised concerns of insurgency involvement. Local authorities are considering the possibility that the killing may be linked to insurgent activities.

Police Major Jun Ray Batadlan, the town’s police chief, revealed that a group of at least 15 unidentified individuals launched a sudden and brutal attack on the residence of the victim, Juvinie Sarona, 43, who was a well-known owner of a lumberyard.

The incident occurred during a seemingly ordinary dinner time, as Sarona was sharing a meal with his uncle around 6:47 p.m. Shockingly, five assailants stormed into Sarona’s house, opening fire and delivering fatal shots.

Fortunately, Sarona’s uncle managed to escape unharmed after being instructed to take cover. According to Batadlan, an additional 10 perpetrators were stationed outside the premises, serving as lookouts.

After executing their plan, the assailants swiftly fled the scene, leaving Sarona’s lifeless body with nine gunshot wounds. Investigation teams have recovered 25 spent cartridges of cal. 5.56mm M16 ammunition from the crime scene, providing crucial evidence for the ongoing inquiry.

Batadlan further disclosed that Sarona had previously received threats from the New People’s Army (NPA) during the first and second quarters of the previous year. However, concrete evidence linking the NPA to this specific incident remains elusive until an official statement is issued by the group.

The victim, known for his active support of government programs, had also been instrumental in assisting the military and law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and order in the town. His untimely demise has sent shockwaves throughout the community, raising concerns about the safety of those who align themselves with government initiatives.