Mindanao, Philippines —
In a major development in the tragic case that shook a local farming community, the suspects behind the brutal killing of three goat sellers in Mindanao have reportedly surrendered to authorities, following intense public pressure and coverage by Senator Raffy Tulfo’s program Raffy Tulfo In Action.

The suspects — who had been in hiding for several days — turned themselves in to police late Tuesday evening, escorted by a barangay official and a local priest. Initial reports confirm that they are now under protective custody as investigations and formal charges move forward.

“They knew they couldn’t run forever,” said PNP Regional Director Col. Mario Ventura.
“This was a senseless, horrifying crime — and justice will be served.”

 THE CRIME: WHAT HAPPENED TO THE GOAT SELLERS?

According to police, the victims — three men in their 30s and 40s — were traveling between towns in Mindanao selling goats, a common livelihood in rural areas. They were reportedly lured to a remote area under the pretense of a bulk sale but were never seen alive again.

Their bodies were found two days later, tied up, with visible signs of torture, and buried in shallow graves near a farmland boundary.

“They just wanted to earn a living,” said a relative.
“Instead, they were robbed and murdered like animals.”

 MOTIVE: ROBBERY TURNED HOMICIDE?

Investigators say the motive appears to be robbery, as the victims were carrying at least ₱200,000 worth of livestock and cash at the time of their disappearance. The suspects allegedly killed them to avoid being identified after the transaction turned violent.

Recovered from one suspect’s home were blood-stained clothing, cash, and items belonging to the victims, according to the CIDG.

 RAFFY TULFO: ‘WE WILL NOT LET THIS GO’

Senator and media personality Raffy Tulfo personally took on the case after being contacted by the victims’ families. In a recent episode of Raffy Tulfo In Action, he spoke directly with grieving relatives and committed his team’s full support:

“Ang hanapbuhay ay hindi dapat maging dahilan ng kamatayan.
Hindi kami titigil hangga’t may hustisya.”

Tulfo’s team coordinated with local officials, offered legal support, and posted a public appeal that many believe pressured the suspects into surrendering.

 FAMILIES REACT: ‘WE JUST WANT JUSTICE’

The families of the victims expressed mixed emotions — relief that the suspects are now in custody, but deep sorrow over the brutality of the crime.

“Hindi na namin sila maibabalik, pero sana makulong habambuhay ang mga gumawa nito.”

“Pumatay sila ng tatlong ama — tatlong haligi ng pamilya.”

“Salamat kay Idol Raffy. Kung wala siya, baka natabunan na lang ito.”

‍ WHAT’S NEXT: TRIAL AND POSSIBLE DEATH PENALTY CALLS

With the suspects now in custody, the Department of Justice has assured that charges of multiple counts of murder, robbery, and obstruction of justice will be filed within days.

Some lawmakers and netizens are now renewing calls for the return of the death penalty for heinous crimes.

“When three innocent men are killed just for doing their job, the punishment should fit the evil,” said one netizen.

 RURAL CRIME AND LIVELIHOOD RISKS

This case has also sparked conversations about the dangers faced by rural vendors, who often travel alone with cash and livestock, without protection or legal safeguards.

“Farmers and small traders are the lifeblood of our economy — but they are often the most vulnerable,” said Atty. Maricel Donato, a legal aid volunteer.

 FINAL THOUGHT: LIVELIHOOD SHOULD NEVER COST A LIFE

The heartbreaking deaths of the three goat sellers are a reminder that poverty, desperation, and impunity remain deadly forces in many parts of the country.

But with community vigilance, media support, and firm action from authorities — justice may finally be within reach.

“They didn’t die for nothing,” said one relative.
“Because now, the whole country knows what happened — and we will not forget.”