Police arrested a murder suspect in less than 24 hours following a shooting incident in Plaridel, Bulacan, after a rapid investigation bolstered by a witness who came forward and close coordination 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 promptly reported, allowing responding police officers to immediately secure the crime scene and launch follow-up operations.
Investigators said information provided by a witness enabled authorities to identify the suspect and determine his possible escape route. The lead proved crucial in narrowing down the suspect’s location and facilitating coordination with other police units.
By late afternoon, personnel from the Plaridel Municipal Police Station, in coordination 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.
Recovered from the suspect were a caliber .45 pistol with ammunition and a vehicle believed to have been used during his escape. The firearm and other seized items were taken into police custody for forensic examination.
PRO3 Regional Director PBGEN Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. said the swift arrest underscored the vital role of 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,” Peñones said.
He added that the prompt resolution of the case demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated police work and public cooperation in maintaining peace and order in Central Luzon.
The operation supports the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations under 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 swift and lawful delivery of justice.
