Bicol: The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) has successfully apprehended four most wanted fugitives during a three-day crackdown on criminal activities in the region.
According to Philippines News Agency, PRO-5 spokesperson Lt. Col. Malu Calubaquib reported the arrests occurred in separate operations across Albay, Camarines Sur, and Cavite from Monday to Wednesday. In Albay, a man known as alias Chad was apprehended in Polangui for qualified theft, while another suspect wanted for statutory rape was captured in Tiwi early Wednesday. Additionally, a regional most wanted individual was arrested in Sag±ay, Camarines Sur, for rape on Monday. The fourth arrest took place in Cavite, where alias Ron, a provincial most wanted in Camarines Sur, was detained in Barangay 13 Agila, Cavite City, also for rape.
PRO-5 Director Andre Dizon praised the dedication of the operatives in their mission to enforce the law and ensure regional security. He stated, “Our operatives are relentless in their efforts to hold offenders accountable and maintain peace and security in the region.”
Meanwhile, two high-ranking New People’s Army (NPA) officials surrendered to the government in Sorsogon on Tuesday. This was facilitated through cooperation between the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army. The individuals, identified as alias Rod and alias Lando, were involved with the Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC) for many years. They also surrendered firearms, including a caliber .45 pistol, a caliber .38 revolver, and an improvised hand grenade, and were taken to Bulan Municipal Police Station for processing.
Director Dizon highlighted that their surrender is part of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP), which aids former insurgents in reintegration. The program offers financial assistance, livelihood training, housing support, and other aid to help them transition to peaceful community life.
“The surrender of these two high-ranking NPA officials marks a significant step toward strengthening peace and security in the Bicol region,” Dizon added.