SUSPECT IN BULACAN ABC PRESIDENT’S SLAYING ARRESTED IN CAVITE

BY KEVIN GALANG

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga — A key suspect in the killing of a barangay official in Bulacan was arrested by the police during a manhunt operation in Kawit, Cavite.

In a report to Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez, the 45-year-old suspect was caught in Bgy. Marulas  in Kawit.

The arrest of the suspect was based on a warrant issued by the Regional Trial Court Branch 11 in Malolos City, Bulacan for two counts of murder, with no bail recommended.

Authorities identified the suspect as one of those involved in the fatal shooting of barangay captain and Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) president Ramil Capistrano and his driver Shedrick S. Toribio on October 3, 2024 in Bgy. Ligas, Malolos City.

The arrest was carried out by the tracker team of the Bulacan Provincial Intelligence Unit, in coordination with multiple police units, including the Bulacan 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, Malolos City Police Station, and regional intelligence and operations units, with support from the Kawit Police Station in Cavite.

Police said the suspect attempted to escape on a motorcycle but collided with a vehicle used by the operatives, leading to his capture.

The suspect is now under the custody of the Bulacan Provincial Intelligence Unit while awaiting the issuance of a commitment order.

Mendez commended the operating teams for the successful arrest, saying it reflects the Philippine National Police’s intensified campaign against wanted persons.

“This operation shows our firm commitment to ensuring that individuals involved in heinous crimes are relentlessly pursued and held accountable. There is no place to hide from the law,” the Central Luzon top cop said.

He added that the successful operation underscores the importance of intelligence-driven policing, strong coordination among units, and sustained manhunt efforts in maintaining public safety and trust.