In what seems to be a plot of a movie, a 37-year-old man in Bukidnon killed a 75-year-old woman he has accused of being a “mambabarang” or witch who allegedly has put him under spells.

Based on investigation, the suspect allegedly beat the woman using a coconut palm stalk before setting her on fire using coconut palm stalks, husks, and leaves.

“So gipalo niya sa niyog yung dry na stalk. Eventually, nawalan ng malay, tuloy-tuloy na siya gisunog niya yung tao,” Bukidnon Police Provincial Office Spokesperson, Major Jayvee Babaan, said.

The incident happened in Kibawe shortly before midday on Saturday, July 26, 2025, but was reported to authorities only the following day.

The police said the suspect may be suffering from mental health issues.

“Base sa information na bag-o lang siya gihiwalayan sa asawa niya, depressed ito na tao. Upon checking sa record, former surrenderee siya, drug-user siya dati,” Babaan said.

The suspect has surrendered to authorities and reportedly owned up to the crime.

He will face murder charges.

“Sa community, let us be observant tapos sa atong mga elderly na members ng family, let us visit them from time to time para aware tayo sa whereabouts nila,” Babaan said.