PAVIA, ILOILO, Philippines – A sense of alarm gripped the community of Barangay Ungka 1 on Tuesday evening, April 14, 2026, after a shooting incident occurred directly in front of the Villarosa Building. The brazen daylight attack has prompted a swift response from local law enforcement and left residents calling for increased security measures in the busy commercial district.

Pavia Police were dispatched to the scene immediately following reports of multiple gunshots. Officers have since cordoned off the area to conduct a thorough forensic investigation.

The shooting took place during a period of high foot traffic near the Villarosa Building, a prominent structure in the area. According to preliminary witness accounts, unidentified individuals were involved in a brief confrontation before shots were fired.

Witnesses described hearing at least three distinct gunshots, which sent bystanders scrambling for cover inside nearby establishments. Initial reports suggest the suspects fled the scene on a motorcycle immediately after the weapon was discharged, heading toward the neighboring district.

Local authorities are currently verifying the number of individuals involved and whether any injuries were sustained. While no fatalities were reported at the immediate scene, investigators are checking local hospitals for any walk-in victims with gunshot wounds.

Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) have recovered several spent shell casings from the pavement in front of the building, which will now undergo ballistic testing to identify the firearm used. Simultaneously, investigators are reviewing surveillance footage from the Villarosa Building and surrounding businesses to identify the shooter and track the getaway vehicle’s license plate.

The Pavia Municipal Police Station has increased patrols in Barangay Ungka 1 following the incident. Police Major, speaking to local reporters, emphasized that the investigation is a top priority.

"We are pursuing several leads and looking into the background of the individuals frequently seen in the vicinity," the officer stated. "We urge the public to remain calm but vigilant as we work to ensure the safety of our commercial zones."

The shooting has caused a temporary disruption to business operations at the Villarosa Building, with several offices closing early as the police processed the scene. Local business owners have expressed concern over the incident, noting that Ungka 1 is typically a high-activity area for commuters and shoppers.

Authorities are asking anyone with information or additional video footage of the incident to contact the Pavia Police hotline. As the investigation continues, the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, though police have not ruled out the possibility of a targeted attack or a personal feud.