DAVAO CITY (MindaNews / 01 January) — The Philippine National Police (PNP) in Matalam, North Cotabato has launched an investigation into a grenade blast along the national highway in Barangay Dalapitan that injured 22 individuals, including 11 minors. Two motorcycle-riding men reportedly lobbed the grenade at a crowd of New Year revelers at around 12:01 a.m. The Matalam Municipal Police Station stated they are gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to identify and apprehend the perpetrators, assuring the public that justice will be served. North Cotabato Governor Emmylou Talino-Mendoza condemned the attack, emphasizing that such violence has no place in the province and pledging assistance for the victims. The police station echoed the condemnation, labeling the act as senseless and cowardly, and urged the community to remain vigilant and report any relevant information. Fifteen of the injured were taken to the M’lang District Hospital, three to the CEM Hospital, two to the Polymedic Hospital, and two to the M’lang Specialist Hospital.
