THE tragic shooting at Azure Urban Resort Residences in Parañaque City that claimed the life of Arjay Gonzales and another man on the evening of March 4, 2026 has shocked many Filipinos not only because of the senseless loss of life but also because it happened inside a residential community where people expect safety and normalcy.
Around 7:59 p.m., William Maik de Guzman, 59, allegedly entered the condominium’s basketball court before opening fire. CCTV footage and police accounts show that he first shot a 57‑year‑old man identified as Edwin, who was watching a game from the sidelines and appears to have been the primary target of a long‑running personal dispute. De Guzman then fired indiscriminately at players and spectators. Two men died—Edwin and 29‑year‑old Arjay, a commercial model, aspiring actor, and B.S. Agricultural Economics graduate of the University of the Philippines Los Baños—while four other individuals were wounded and rushed to nearby hospitals. Arjay’s mother later said medical help arrived roughly 30–40 minutes after the shooting, a delay she believes may have been critical to her son’s survival.
When questioned by police, De Guzman said he had been irritated by noise and alleged taunts from some residents. He claimed that after shooting Edwin, he feared the people at the court might shoot him, prompting him to take cover and fire his weapon indiscriminately. His statements suggest a disturbed state of mind.
De Guzman fled the scene casually on foot, reportedly carrying an umbrella and wearing a face mask. Two days later, on March 6, police arrested him in a condominium unit owned by his wife in Barangay Moonwalk, Parañaque City, where authorities recovered two 9 mm pistols, multiple magazines, and live ammunition. He now faces two counts of murder, four counts of frustrated murder, and violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act. Police also served an outstanding arrest warrant from a 2023 homicide conviction that had remained unexecuted until his capture.
While deeply disturbing, the incident appears to be an isolated and uncommon occurrence, not reflective of the general security conditions in private residential developments. Century Properties Group, the builder behind Azure—licensed by Paris Hilton and known for amenities like a wave pool and The Paris Beach Club—also developed landmarks such as Trump Tower Manila, The Gramercy Residences, and numerous themed luxury, high-rise, mixed-use, and affordable housing projects. These communities are generally regarded as secure and well‑managed.
Management of Azure reportedly asked residents to refrain from posting about the incident on social media in an effort to contain the situation. However, in today’s digital age, information spreads quickly and cannot be easily contained. The incident serves as a reminder to all condominium owners and management alike that true safety requires transparency and vigilance, and not merely the protection of reputation.
