By I. Inojales | 08:50 AM May 04, 2026
TAGBILARAN CITY — A 39-year-old man tagged as the Top 1 Most Wanted Person at the regional level for four counts of qualified rape of a minor was arrested in a manhunt operation in Mabini town, Bohol, on May 2, 2026, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.
The suspect, a resident of Meycauayan City, Bulacan, was apprehended around 3 p.m. in Purok 4, Lawis, Barangay Baybayon through a joint operation led by the Tracker Team of the Bulacan Police Provincial Office’s Provincial Intelligence Unit.
Assisting units included the Meycauayan City Police Station, Bulacan 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the Mabini Municipal Police Station.
Police said the operation was carried out based on a warrant of arrest issued on Nov. 18, 2025 by the Regional Trial Court Branch 121 in Meycauayan City for four counts of qualified rape of a minor, with no bail recommended. The arrest followed focused intelligence work that led authorities to the suspect’s location in Bohol.
The accused is now under police custody, while the warrant will be returned to the issuing court pending the issuance of a commitment order.
PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the arrest highlights the police force’s commitment to pursuing fugitives, particularly those accused of crimes against minors.
“We will continue to pursue those who attempt to evade justice, especially in cases involving grave offenses against minors. Our operations remain focused on bringing offenders before the courts without delay,” Nartatez said.
He added that police operations will persist across regions to ensure that suspects cannot escape accountability.
“Sa kahit saang lugar sila magtago, mahahanap sila ng pulis. Patuloy naming gagawin ang aming tungkulin para sa kaligtasan ng mamamayan,” he said.
The PNP said the arrest aligns with its intensified campaign against wanted persons under the administration of Ferdinand Marcos Jr., emphasizing intelligence-driven operations to enhance public safety and deliver justice.
