TACLOBAN CITY — Four individuals listed as most wanted persons in Eastern Visayas were arrested in a series of coordinated police operations conducted across the region on May 1, 2026, authorities said.
Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) said the one-day simultaneous operations underscore its intensified campaign against fugitives wanted for serious criminal offenses.
“Police Regional Office 8 will continue to pursue wanted persons relentlessly to ensure that justice is served and that the safety of our communities is upheld,” regional director Brigadier General Jason Capoy said, commending the operating units behind the arrests.
In Biliran, authorities arrested alias “Owen,” 54, a construction foreman, for multiple charges including frustrated murder, multiple counts of murder and attempted murder, robbery with homicide, and destructive arson.
In Barugo, Leyte, police arrested a 52-year-old driver identified as alias “Gado” for statutory rape, attempted statutory rape, and two counts of acts of lasciviousness.
In Tacloban City, alias “Mak,” 48, a construction worker, was apprehended for six counts of rape by sexual assault in relation to Republic Act 7610 or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
Meanwhile, in Calbayog City, alias “Carlo,” 45, a farmer, was arrested for murder, kidnapping, and serious illegal detention.
PRO-8 said all suspects are now under police custody and will be turned over to the respective courts for proper legal proceedings.
Authorities said the simultaneous arrests form part of sustained efforts to track down fugitives and strengthen law enforcement operations across Eastern Visayas.
(RONALD O. REYES)
