Camp Olivas, City of San Fernando, Pampanga —A murder suspect was arrested in less than 24 hours after a shooting incident in Plaridel, Bulacan, following a fast-moving police investigation aided by a witness who came forward and coordinated efforts among police units across provinces.
The shooting occurred in the early hours of January 3, 2026 along Cagayan Valley Road in Barangay Tabang, Plaridel. The incident was reported shortly after it happened, prompting Plaridel police to immediately secure the scene and begin follow-up operations.
Investigators said information provided by a witness helped police identify the suspect and trace his possible escape route. This information proved crucial in narrowing down the suspect’s location and coordinating with other police units.
Later that afternoon, personnel of the Plaridel Municipal Police Station, working with the Bulacan Police Provincial Office and the Cabanatuan City Police Station, tracked the suspect to a hotel in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, where he was arrested at around 5:30 p.m.
A caliber .45 pistol with ammunition was recovered from the suspect, along with a vehicle believed to have been used during his escape. The firearm and other items were taken into police custody for forensic examination.
PRO3 Regional Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. said the quick arrest showed how cooperation between the community and law enforcement can lead to swift justice.
“This case highlights the importance of community partnership. When witnesses come forward and trust the police, crimes are solved faster and lives are protected,” PBGEN Peñones Jr added.
He further stated that the swift resolution of the case underscores the role of coordinated police work and public cooperation in maintaining peace and order in Central Luzon.
The successful operation supports the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations of Acting Chief PNP PLTGEN Jose Melencio C Nartatez Jr , and reinforces PRO3’s 3Ps—Protect the People, Pursue Peace and Order, and Promote Professionalism—by ensuring that justice is delivered swiftly and lawfully.
