‘Chismis’ Sparks Balasan Shooting, Two Injured

By Jennifer P. Rendon

Old grudges may have triggered a shooting that injured two people in Balasan, Iloilo, on the evening of March 20.

Police are looking into the possibility that “chismis,” or gossip, led to the shooting of alias “Kizza,” 23, of Poblacion, President Roxas, Capiz, and John Jobert, 23, of Barangay Natividad, Pilar, Capiz.

Reports said the two victims were drinking with four friends when two suspects entered the store.

At the time, one of their friends was livestreaming on Facebook when the two men suddenly barged in.

Although not caught on camera, multiple gunshots were heard in the background.

Capt. Renzo Martinez, chief of Balasan police, said the suspects were identified as alias “Ronnie,” 39, of Tapaz, Capiz, and currently residing in Barangay Poblacion Sur, Balasan, and another individual known as alias “Bulldog.”

Ronnie was reportedly armed with a firearm, while Bulldog held a knife.

Martinez said Ronnie fired his weapon indiscriminately, hitting Kizza in the back and striking John Jobert in the back and right thigh.

Both suspects fled on foot after the incident.

Police believe Ronnie may have specifically targeted his former neighbor, Kizza.

The suspect allegedly harbored resentment toward her for reportedly spreading false rumors about him and his partner.

However, Kizza claimed that it was Ronnie’s partner who first approached her and initiated a conversation.

Meanwhile, John Jobert’s family is seeking financial assistance for his medical expenses.