Provincial

CENTRAL LUZON COPS SWIFT ACTION LEADS TO ARREST OF MURDER SUSPECT IN LESS THAN 24 HOURS

admin January 5, 2026

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga — A swift investigation bolstered by a witness’s cooperation and coordinated operations among police units across provinces led to arrest of a murder suspect in less than 24 hours in Plaridel, Bulacan,

The alleged murder took place in the early hours of January 3 on Cagayan Valley Road in Bgy. Tabang in Plaridel.

The shooting incident was reported shortly after it occurred, prompting responding officers to immediately secure the crime scene and launch follow-up operations.

Probers said information provided by a witness enabled authorities to identify the suspect and determine his possible escape route.

A tip proved crucial in narrowing down the suspect’s whereabouts and facilitating coordination with other police units.

Later that day, personnel from the Plaridel police, in coordination with the Bulacan Police Provincial Office and the Cabanatuan City police, traced the suspect to a hotel in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, that led to his arrest.

Recovered from the suspect were a cal. .45 pistol with ammunition and a vehicle believed to have been used in his escape.

According to Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., the swift arrest demonstrated the value of strong cooperation between the community and law enforcement.

“This case highlights the importance of community partnership. When witnesses come forward and trust the police, crimes are solved faster and lives are protected,” the Central Luzon top cop said.

Peñones added that the prompt resolution underscores the effectiveness of coordinated police work and public cooperation in maintaining peace and order in Central Luzon.

The operation supports the Philippine National Police’s Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations thrust of acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., and reinforces PRO3’s 3Ps—Protect the People, Pursue Peace and Order, and Promote Professionalism—by ensuring the swift and lawful delivery of justice.