A security guard fatally shot a person with disability (PWD) in Bacolod City just two days before Christmas, triggering nationwide outrage. The victim, identified as Runier Sigapore, sustained two gunshot wounds—one below the mouth and another in the abdomen. The tragic incident has left his grieving family and concerned citizens demanding accountability.
Deadly altercation at Bacolod sari-sari store
On December 23, Sigapore, described as a person with special needs, entered a sari-sari store reportedly owned by the security guard’s brother. Known in his neighborhood for wandering the streets and asking for food from stores, Sigapore’s harmless behavior allegedly led to a commotion that escalated fatally.
The security guard, stationed across the street, rushed to the scene after his brother reportedly called for help. Shortly after arriving, two gunshots rang out. Sigapore was found lifeless on the ground, just meters from the store.
The guard later surrendered to police, claiming he acted in self-defense and was unaware of Sigapore’s condition. However, the victim’s family insists Sigapore was non-violent and had never been involved in any conflict.
Public fury over the security guard’s actions
The incident sparked widespread condemnation on social media, with netizens expressing disbelief and anger over the shooting. Many questioned whether lethal force was necessary and criticized the security guard for his alleged lack of judgment.
- @ConcernedCitizenPH: “A defenseless PWD shot in ‘self-defense’? This is outrageous and deserves full accountability!”
- @Justice4PWDs: “This case highlights how society treats vulnerable individuals. We need justice for Runier Sigapore.”
- @LawAndOrderPH: “If the guard didn’t know he was a PWD, he still used excessive force. No excuses!”
- @HeartbrokenNetizen: “Runier’s story breaks my heart. His family deserves justice, especially this Christmas season.”
- @CommunityProtector: “Self-defense? Against a PWD? The police need to dig deeper into this so-called justification.”
- @HopeForChange: “This tragedy calls for stricter training for security guards. They are supposed to protect, not harm.”
Authorities investigate as grief lingers
Law enforcement is currently investigating the circumstances leading to the shooting. Authorities aim to determine whether the security guard’s claim of self-defense holds or if excessive force was employed.
Sigapore’s family mourns not only his death but also the absence of justice for someone they described as a harmless individual. The tragic timing of the incident, so close to Christmas, has heightened public emotion, with many calling for reforms to prevent similar cases in the future.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.