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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP orders hot pursuit, tighter checkpoints after New Year grenade attack in North Cotabato

PNP orders hot pursuit, tighter checkpoints after New Year grenade attack in North Cotabato

Published Jan 2, 2026 05:56 pm
Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: PNP)
Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (File photo: PNP)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday, Jan. 2, ordered intensified checkpoints and hot pursuit operations in Matalam, North Cotabato following a grenade attack that injured 22 civilians during a New Year’s Eve celebration.
According to initial investigation, two men riding a motorcycle threw a hand grenade at a New Year’s Eve gathering in Barangay Dalapitan shortly after midnight on Thursday, Jan. 1.
At least 22 people were wounded by shrapnel and the victims were taken to nearby hospitals for treatment.
One of the suspects reportedly died in a shootout with the responding cops. He was identified as Hammad Ansa, the one who allegedly threw the grenade at the civilians.
Police Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., acting PNP chief, directed the Cotabato police to conduct continuous intelligence gathering and pursuit operations to identify and arrest the remaining suspect at large, who sped off using a motorcycle.
He also ordered the deployment of additional personnel to strengthen patrols and intensify checkpoints and roadblocks in affected areas.
“The PNP strongly condemns this heinous incident and reaffirms our commitment to protecting the public,” Nartatez said.
“Hinding-hindi tayo titigil hangga’t hindi nahuhuli ang mga responsable sa insidenteng ito (We will not stop until those responsible for this incident are arrested),” the top cop added.
The PNP said the situation remains under control and residents were assured that security forces are on full alert to prevent a repeat of the incident.
Police have coordinated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines, local government units, and intelligence partners to track down the escaped suspect.
Residents were advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or through official hotlines.
“Huwag po tayong magpadala sa takot (Let us not give in to fear). This incident will not weaken our resolve to keep our communities safe,” Nartatez said.

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PNP grenade attack New Year\'s Eve Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. North Cotabato
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