PUERTO PRINCESA, Palawan — A potentially dangerous incident unfolded early Tuesday morning, December 30, 2025, in Barangay Bancao-Bancao, Puerto Princesa City, after a man allegedly blocked passersby and threatened a motorist with a machete, prompting swift action from local responders and police authorities.

At around 6:50 a.m., a distress call was received through the 911 hotline reporting a disturbance along Dagomboy Road, where a man was reportedly harassing and obstructing people passing through the area. Responding personnel immediately proceeded to the scene and encountered the suspect, identified as Edmond Laburte, 30 years old, a resident of the same barangay.

According to a resident identified as Mercy, Laburte allegedly went on a rampage following a confrontation with another man in the area. The argument reportedly stemmed from a misunderstanding involving a person who was merely being picked up to serve as a hospital watcher for a patient. What began as a personal dispute quickly escalated into a public safety concern.

The complainant, Glenn Nadado, 30, of Barangay Mandaragat, told authorities that he was on his way to fetch a friend for hospital duty when Laburte suddenly blocked his path and allegedly brandished a machete, placing him in fear for his safety. Responding personnel were able to recover the bladed weapon from the suspect, preventing any further harm.

Laburte was subsequently turned over to the Philippine National Police Station 1 for proper blotter documentation and further investigation.

Beyond the immediate incident, this case underscores how quickly unresolved personal conflicts can spiral into threats to public safety, especially when weapons are involved. It also highlights the importance of rapid emergency response systems and community vigilance. While no one was injured, the presence of a deadly weapon in a public road could have resulted in tragic consequences. As authorities continue to assess the incident, it serves as a reminder that maintaining peace and order requires not only law enforcement action but also conflict management, mental health awareness, and responsible behavior within communities. Early intervention, as seen in this case, can mean the difference between a disturbance and a disaster. (Larawan: We R1 At Your Service Official / Facebook)