A 42-year-old man was shot while attempting to collect a debt in Villasis, Pangasinan.
Villasis Police Chief, Pmaj. Edgar Allan Serquiña, reported receiving a call from the barangay captain of Barangobong regarding the incident, which took place in a remote field.
According to the initial investigation, the victim, identified as Alfi Ubaldo Gallardo, was trying to collect a P20,000 debt from a farmer named Rogelio De Dios Celis, 38.
Celis reportedly told Gallardo to wait outside while he retrieved something from inside, only to return armed with a gun, which surprised Gallardo.
Gallardo attempted to flee and hide in the field, but the suspect fired twice, hitting Gallardo in the leg.
It was reported that the two men had a heated exchange before the incident occurred.
Gallardo was taken to the nearest hospital and, fortunately, suffered no serious injuries.
Authorities are currently searching for the suspect to bring him to justice.
Meanwhile, as the town undergoes the filing of Certificates of Candidacy, Serquiña reassured residents that Villasis remains peaceful and urged community support for local law enforcement.
