Two people were killed, and three others, including two soldiers, were injured in a shooting incident in Mlang, Cotabato.
The incident occurred along the National Highway in Barangay Bagontapay during a local festival.
PMajor Rissa Hernaez, spokesperson for PNP Region 12, confirmed the fatalities in an interview with Bombo Radyo Koronadal.
One of the victims was identified as Romnick Villaram Reyes, a 28-year-old barbecue vendor from Barangay Bagontapay, Mlang.
Another victim, whose identity remains unknown, died at the hospital after being injured in the shooting.
According to Hernaez, Barangay Captain Ivan Roy Macantan and three others allegedly opened fire on the crowd watching a live band at the festival.
Among the injured were two members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, along with civilians present at the event.
Police recovered a .45-caliber pistol, seven shell casings, six live rounds, and four 9mm casings at the scene.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting and the origin of the firearm used in the killings.