BADOC, Ilocos Norte —Two men were shot dead in an ambush-style attack while on their way home from a cockfighting arena in Barangay Paltit, Badoc, Ilocos Norte.

Police identified the victims as Erwin Domingo Rondal, 60, of Napu, Badoc, and James Fernandez, 41, a farmer from Bulbulala, Pinili. Both were traveling north in a Toyota Veloz when armed suspects aboard a white Toyota Innova and a black pickup truck intercepted their vehicle and opened fire.

Authorities said the victims’ vehicle was riddled with bullets, and both men sustained multiple gunshot wounds. They were rushed to a nearby hospital but were declared dead on arrival. Investigators recovered firearms, empty shells, and deformed bullets from the crime scene and the victims’ vehicle.

Police Colonel Joemar Q. Labiano, Ilocos Norte police director, confirmed that follow-up investigations are ongoing and that persons of interest have already been identified. 

“Kinorner umano ang kanilang sasakyan at dito malapitan na pinagbabaril ang mga biktima na tadtad ng tama ng bala sa katawan,” said Police Captain Elison Pasamonte, chief of the Badoc Police Station.

The ambush has raised concerns among residents, as the attack occurred along a national highway, underscoring the brazenness of the perpetrators. Authorities are now working to establish the motive behind the killings and track down the suspects.