Asipulo, Ifugao - A peaceful afternoon in Amduntog, Asipulo took a harrowing turn on October 18 when a man wielding a bolo unleashed a terrifying rampage, resulting in the tragic death of a 5-year-old child and leaving 10 others injured.
According to the Asipulo Public Information Office, the horrifying incident unfolded around 3:30 p.m. that fateful day.
The assailant, identified as Davis Bullong, a 44-year-old ex-convict hailing from Antipolo, Asipulo, went on a rampage not limited to one location. Before his violent entry into a local school, Bullong had already attacked several individuals in two different sitios and even at the barangay hall.
The initial victim, as per police reports, was Michael Tukal, who was visiting the residence of Tomas Tayaban. Tukal was struck by Bullong and subsequently assaulted with the bolo. Tayaban himself sustained injuries as the attacker turned his attention to him.
Bullong then proceeded to another sitio, Halulug, where he targeted three more individuals: Esperanza Tadao, Jenarize Dinamling, and Melanie Tahin.
The assailant continued his spree by heading to the barangay hall, where he inflicted injuries upon Aldrick Hagada, Joselyn Tognaon, Viana Tognaon, and Franz Joe Tognaon.
His relentless rampage took him to Asipulo Central School, where he assaulted Austin Espiritu, who was preparing to leave for home. Tragically, Letty Monayao became the final victim before law enforcement officers were forced to take action and open fire on Bullong.
Bullong was neutralized, and both he and the victims were rushed to Panopdopan District Hospital and the Region 2 Trauma Center for medical treatment.
Regrettably, despite medical efforts, both Bullong and the 5-year-old child, identified as Hanz Joe Tognaon, succumbed to their injuries during treatment.
Currently, two of the ten injured individuals have been discharged and have returned home. The remaining eight, who are in stable condition, continue to receive care at the aforementioned medical facilities.
In light of the traumatic incident, Asipulo Central School and Asipulo National High School have been directed to suspend classes on October 19 to provide support and relief to the traumatized students.
The Asipulo local government unit issued a statement during this difficult time, appealing for community unity and sympathy for the victims' families. They requested that the community join in prayer for those severely affected by this tragic event.
