A joint operation by the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has ended the long hideout of the No. 1 Most Wanted Person in the Bicol Region, marking a major breakthrough in the PNP’s campaign against fugitives.
The suspect was arrested on September 6, 2025, at Port Calatagan, Sitio Balumbato, Barangay 4, Calatagan, Batangas, after weeks of intensive surveillance and close coordination among various police and maritime units.
According to records, the accused is facing multiple grave charges, including rape by sexual assault under Criminal Case No. FC-25-4879, with a recommended bail of Php120,000, and 21 counts of attempted qualified rape involving a minor under Criminal Case Nos. FC-25-4995 to FC-25-5015, each with a recommended bail of Php200,000. The warrants of arrest were issued by the Regional Trial Court of Legazpi City.
The successful arrest was the result of the combined efforts of the Rapu-Rapu Municipal Police Station, the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO 5, the Albay Provincial Intelligence Unit, the Legazpi City Police Station, the Calatagan Municipal Police Station, and the Coast Guard Sub-Station in Calatagan, Batangas.
Following his arrest, the suspect was informed of his constitutional rights under Republic Act 7438 and underwent a medical examination before being placed under the custody of Calatagan MPS for documentation and proper disposition.
Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Acting PNP Chief, commended the success of the operation, saying: “Pinatutunayan ng operasyong ito na saan man magtago ang mga pugante, walang tigil silang tutugisin ng Philippine National Police hanggang maihatid ang hustisya. Ito ang aming pangako: ang protektahan ang mga biktima at tiyaking ligtas ang ating mga komunidad.”
For the victims and their families, the capture of one of the region’s most wanted fugitives brings renewed hope that justice will be served and underscores the principle that the law will always prevail. PNP, in coordination with partner agencies, has vowed to further strengthen its investigative and intelligence-gathering efforts to apprehend all criminals who are attempting to evade justice.
