Jun Esmer

23/04/2026

PNP WELCOMES SURRENDER OF 4 INSURGENCY-AFFILIATED INDIVIDUALS IN EASTERN VISAYAS

The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PNP Chief, PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., documented the voluntary surrender of three Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members and one Underground Mass Organization (UGMO) member in separate incidents across Eastern Visayas on April 21, 2026, reflecting continued gains in peace and security operations in insurgency-affected areas.

In Matuguinao, Samar, a 34-year-old Filipino male farmer known as “Bian,” a former CTG medic under Squad 3, FC 6, SRC, surrendered to personnel of the 1st Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st SPMFC).

In Bobon, Northern Samar, a 26-year-old Filipino male habal-habal driver identified as “Dekoy,” a CTG member under SRC, EMPORIUM, EVRPC, voluntarily yielded to operatives of the 804th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 8 (RMFB-8) during a law enforcement operation.

In Leyte, a 53-year-old Filipino male farmer known as “Ka Oscar,” a former New People’s Army member operating in the province, surrendered at the headquarters of the 1st Leyte Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st LPMFC). He also turned over one caliber .38 revolver with live ammunition, now under police custody for proper disposition.

In Eastern Samar, a 46-year-old Filipino male farmer identified as “Jasper,” a UGMO member, voluntarily surrendered to the 2nd Eastern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd ESPMFC) and is currently undergoing documentation and verification.

The PNP said these developments align with its Focused Agenda, particularly the key priorities on Active Community Support and Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthen community engagement and sustain focused law enforcement efforts that encourage individuals involved in insurgent movements to return to peaceful civilian life.

PNP Chief, PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., highlighted the importance of sustained community trust in government efforts.

“The continued cooperation of communities plays a vital role in achieving lasting peace and security in affected areas,” he said.

“Hinihikayat namin ang mga natitira pang kasapi na talikuran ang armadong pakikibaka at bumalik sa kanilang mga pamilya. Nandito ang pamahalaan upang tumulong sa kanilang panibagong simula,” he added.

As the PNP strengthens its peace and security initiatives in insurgency-affected areas under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it continues to assure the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PNP PRESS STATEMENT

I affirm the filing of criminal charges against cadets and personnel of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) in connection with the April 3 hazing incident as a clear assertion of accountability within the organization.

Let me be clear: there is no place for hazing or any form of abuse in the PNP. Those who violate the law will be held accountable without exception.

I have also directed the continued strengthening of enforcement, supervision, and accountability mechanisms to ensure that such violations are addressed promptly and decisively under existing laws and regulations.

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) filed the complaint on April 20 before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Imus, Cavite for violations of Republic Act No. 11053 or the Anti-Hazing Act of 2018.

We will continue to act on all reported violations and reinforce preventive measures to deter similar incidents and protect the welfare of all cadets.

POLICE GENERAL JOSE MELENCIO C. NARTATEZ, JR.
Chief, Philippine National Police

23/04/2026

PNP FOILS ALLEGED SMUGGLING ATTEMPT, RECOVERS ₱16.1M CI******ES IN LANAO DEL SUR

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported the recovery of an estimated ₱16.1 million worth of alleged smuggled ci******es following the discovery of three abandoned trucks in Malabang, Lanao del Sur in the early hours of April 21, 2026.

Acting on a tip from a concerned citizen, personnel of the Malabang Municipal Police Station, together with supporting units, responded to a vacant lot in Brgy. BPS Village at around 4:50 AM.

Upon arrival, authorities found three trucks left unattended and without documents. A subsequent inspection revealed that the vehicles, loaded with coconuts, also contained hundreds of master cases of ci******es believed to have been smuggled into the area.

A total of 403 master cases of ci******es were recovered from the site. The items are now under the custody of the local police for proper documentation and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs. Investigation is ongoing to identify the individuals behind the shipment.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the swift response of the operating units and underscored the importance of sustained operations against smuggling.

“Ito ay malinaw na mensahe na patuloy tayong kikilos laban sa mga gawaing sumisira sa ating ekonomiya at sa kapakanan ng mamamayan. Our police on the ground acted quickly, and that made all the difference,” PGen Nartatez said.

“Sa bawat ganitong operasyon, ipinapakita natin na hindi tayo titigil. We will continue to work closely with our partner agencies and the community to keep our borders and our markets protected,” he added.

The operation forms part of intensified efforts under PNP Focused Agenda, particularly on Enhanced Managing Police Operations in support of the broader directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to curb smuggling and protect lawful trade.

The PNP assures the public that efforts will continue to track down those responsible, while encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities in their communities. This accomplishment reflects the continuing commitment of the organization to uphold “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PNP FILES CHARGES VS 4 SUSPECTS IN BUSTOS, BULACAN CASE

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirms the arrest of four individuals following the discovery of a female cadaver in Brgy. Poblacion, Bustos, Bulacan on April 21, 2026.

The victim, a 16-year-old student and resident of the area, was reported missing on April 11, 2026. Her remains were discovered after coordinated follow-up operations prompted by information gathered from a witness and subsequent police action.

Personnel of Bustos Municipal Police Station immediately conducted a hot pursuit operation, resulting in the arrest of one suspect. Further validation of information led to the apprehension of three more individuals in separate follow-up operations.

All four suspects, residents of Bustos, Bulacan, are now in police custody while complaints for R**e with Homicide are being readied for filing before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office in Malolos City.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., praised the quick coordination of operating units and stressed the importance of timely but careful police action in sensitive cases.

“Ang ganitong insidente ay nangangailangan ng mabilis pero maingat na aksyon. Hindi tayo puwedeng magpabaya sa proseso, lalo na kung buhay at dignidad ang nakataya. We will continue to pursue the facts of this case with fairness and determination,” PGen Nartatez said.

The case is in line with the PNP Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, reinforcing faster response and stronger investigative coordination. It also supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for a more responsive and accountable law enforcement service.

“Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman” remains the guiding commitment of the organization in delivering responsive and credible police service.

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PNP ACTS ON QC VEHICULAR INCIDENT, FILES CASE AGAINST PERSONNEL

The Philippine National Police (PNP) confirms the filing of a criminal case for Reckless Imprudence Resulting in Damage to Property against a police non-commissioned officer in connection with a road incident involving a PNP-marked vehicle along EDSA in Quezon City.

The case was filed on April 21, 2026 before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office, following the completion of initial investigation and required documentation.

The incident occurred on April 17, 2026, at about 5:00 PM along EDSA northbound near Main Avenue, Barangay Socorro, Quezon City. A PNP-marked Toyota Coaster and a commercial bus were both traveling along the same route when a side collision took place during a lane maneuver. No injuries were reported, while both vehicles sustained damage.

Following the incident, internal administrative measures were immediately undertaken. The personnel involved was relieved from his post at the Transportation and Maintenance Division and reassigned to the Personnel and Human Resource and Administration Service effective April 18, 2026. The officer-in-charge of the Transportation and Maintenance Division was likewise relieved as part of continuing internal accountability measures.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., underscored that accountability within the organization is consistently upheld across all ranks and assignments.

“We hold our personnel to a high standard of accountability. Kasama sa tungkulin namin ang siguraduhing ang bawat kilos ay naaayon sa disiplina at responsibilidad na inaasahan ng publiko,” PGen Nartatez said.

He added that the organization continues to strengthen internal controls and reinforce operational discipline as part of ongoing reforms under the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly on Integrity Monitoring, in support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call for a more efficient, responsible, and transparent public service.

The PNP assured the public that appropriate legal and administrative processes are being observed, with corrective measures in place to help prevent similar incidents.

The organization remains guided by its commitment to discipline, professionalism, and public trust under the principle of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PNP NABS 2, SEIZES OVER ₱1M ILLEGAL TIMBER, FIREARM IN ANTI-ILLEGAL LOGGING OPERATION

The Philippine National Police, under the command of PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., arrested two individuals for violations of P.D. No. 705 and R.A. No. 10591 during an anti-illegal logging operation conducted at about 2:30 PM on April 20, 2026 in Brgy. Inyawan, Libertad, Antique.

Operatives from the Libertad Municipal Police Station, Antique Police Provincial Office, in coordination with the Community Environment and Natural Resources Office, carried out the operation that resulted in the arrest of two male Filipino suspects and the confiscation of illegally cut forest products and a firearm. Seized from the area were assorted logs, including mahogany, kansilay, ughayan, toog, blanga-an, nato, dural-og, bug-arum, malauban, bakan, and unidentified species, with a total volume of 13,680.0594 board feet and an estimated market value of Php1,026,004.46. A caliber .38 revolver was also recovered. The suspects and pieces of evidence are now under the custody of the arresting unit.

The operation underscores the intensified efforts of the PNP in curbing environmental crimes and illegal possession of fi****ms, particularly in areas vulnerable to illegal logging activities.

Aligned with this, the PNP continues to advance its PNP Focused Agenda—a strategic direction of transformation designed to make police service more responsive and accountable. Central to this agenda are key priorities that define the course of the PNP, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations, strengthening law enforcement actions against environmental crimes and ensuring sustained protection of natural resources.

PNP Chief PGEN Nartatez stated, “We will relentlessly pursue individuals who exploit our natural resources and violate our laws, as these acts undermine environmental sustainability and public safety. Hindi namin palalampasin ang mga lumalabag sa batas at sumisira sa ating kalikasan.”

He further emphasized, “Our law enforcement efforts will remain firm and consistent to ensure accountability and deterrence. Patuloy ang aming mahigpit na pagpapatupad ng batas upang maprotektahan ang ating likas na yaman at komunidad.”

The PNP maintains its firm stance against illegal logging and unlawful possession of fi****ms, ensuring that violators are held accountable under the law.

As the PNP intensifies its campaign against environmental crimes and illegal fi****ms under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it continues to assure the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

AGARANG AKSYON NG OFF-DUTY PULIS, TUMULONG SA PAG-APULA NG SUNOG SA SASAKYAN SA GAS STATION

Ipinakita ng isang pulis mula sa Angadanan Police Station ang tunay na diwa ng malasakit at serbisyo publiko matapos nitong maagapan ang posibleng mas malalang insidente habang siya ay off-duty.

Batay sa ulat, bandang 7:30 ng umaga noong Abril 20, 2026, pauwi na si Police Master Sergeant Kennedy Tungpalan kasama ang kanyang asawa nang mapansin niya ang usok at kaguluhan sa isang gasolinahan sa Brgy. Alibagu, Ilagan City.

Agad siyang bumaba ng sasakyan upang alamin ang sitwasyon at tumambad sa kanya ang isang kotse na nasusunog habang nakaparada sa loob ng gasolinahan. Sa kabila ng pagiging off-duty, hindi siya nagdalawang-isip at mabilis na ginamit ang fire extinguisher ng establisyemento upang apulahin ang apoy.

Dahil sa kanyang maagap na pagkilos, napigilan ang pagkalat ng apoy at naiwasan ang mas malaking pinsala o trahedya.

Ayon sa driver ng sasakyan, hindi niya namalayan na may nagsisimula nang sunog habang siya ay papasok sa gasolinahan. Nagpahayag naman ng pasasalamat ang pamunuan ng lugar sa mabilis na pagtugon ng pulis na naging susi sa pag-iwas sa mas malalang insidente.

Ayon kay PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., “Ganitong uri ng serbisyo ang nais nating makita at maramdaman ng ating kababayan—laging handa kahit off-duty, may malasakit, at laging handang tumulong. Sa bawat ganitong insidente, nakikita ng publiko na ang ating mga pulis ay tunay na lingkod-bayan.”

Dagdag pa ni PGen Nartatez ang ganitong uri ng aksyon ay patunay ng patuloy na dedikasyon ng organisasyon sa pagpapatupad ng disiplina at malasakit sa komunidad.

Ang insidenteng ito ay patunay ng patuloy na pag-iral ng diwa ng Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman sa bawat miyembro ng kapulisan, saan man sila naroroon.

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PDEA-PNP BUST YIELDS ₱278.8-M SHABU, 2 FOREIGN NATIONALS ARRESTED

A joint anti-illegal drug operation led by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), with support from the Philippine National Police (PNP), resulted in the arrest of two foreign nationals and the seizure of approximately 41 kilograms of suspected shabu valued at ₱278.8 million in Quezon City.

The operation was conducted at around 10:22 PM on April 21, 2026, along Andrade Street, Barangay Balingasa. Arrested were two Chinese nationals, both male and currently residing in General Trias, Cavite.

Recovered during the operation were approximately 41 kilograms of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of ₱278.8 million. The illegal drugs were found packed in multiple containers, along with several non-drug items including mobile phones, travel documents, a vehicle, and marked money used in the operation.

The suspects are now facing charges for violations of Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the operating teams for their coordination with PDEA, which led the operation.

“This operation is a strong step in reducing the supply of illegal drugs entering our communities. Malinaw ang ating mensahe—hindi natin palalampasin ang mga grupong sangkot sa ganitong gawain, lalo na ang mga dayuhang ginagamit ang ating bansa bilang bahagi ng kanilang operasyon,” PGen Nartatez said.

“Through sustained coordination with PDEA, we will continue to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and hold accountable those involved, while ensuring that all actions are carried out within the bounds of the law,” he added.

The operation forms part of the intensified national campaign against illegal drugs, aligned with the PNP’s Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, and supports the broader direction of the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in ensuring safer communities through lawful and coordinated enforcement efforts.

Authorities assured that all actions were carried out in accordance with the law, with respect for due process and human rights.

The PNP, together with PDEA, reaffirms its commitment to a sustained and balanced approach in addressing illegal drugs, guided by the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

23/04/2026

PNP, UNIFIED 911 RESPONDS TO CALOOCAN CABLE THEFT; 3 ARRESTED, COPPER WIRES RECOVERED

The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., successfully responded to a cable theft incident in Caloocan City on Friday following an emergency call through the Unified 911 system, a vital public safety service under the Department of the Interior and Local Government led by Secretary Juanito Victor C. Remulla Jr. The swift response led to the arrest of three individuals and the recovery of copper underground cable wires.

At about 3:14 AM of April 17, 2026, security personnel of a telecommunications service provider observed three male individuals extracting copper underground cable wires from a manhole along A. Mabini Street, Barangay 15, Caloocan City, beside the Caloocan City Medical Center.

The incident was immediately reported through emergency channels, prompting police response at 4:23 AM.

Responding personnel identified the suspects as three male individuals, all residents of Caloocan City, who were caught in the act and failed to present any authority or permit to conduct excavation or handling of telecommunications infrastructure.

Recovered from the scene were copper underground cable wires, some still attached inside the manhole and already under the possession and control of the suspects at the time of interception.

The PNP emphasized that the operation reflects strengthened field response against infrastructure-related crimes under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations priority of the PNP Focused Agenda, which reinforces immediate action in protecting essential public utilities.

“This operation demonstrates our commitment to respond decisively to crimes affecting critical infrastructure and public services. Hindi natin hahayaan na masira ang mga linya ng komunikasyon na mahalaga sa serbisyo ng publiko,” said PGEN Nartatez.

The suspects remain under police custody for proper disposition and filing of appropriate charges, while the recovered items are secured as evidence.

As the PNP intensifies its campaign against infrastructure-related crimes under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it assures the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

23/04/2026

PRO7 SUSTAINS LEADERSHIP, TOPS PNP UPER FOR 13TH CONSECUTIVE MONTH

The Police Regional Office 7 (PRO7) continues to raise the bar in policing excellence as it sustains its top rank in the Philippine National Police (PNP) Unit Performance Evaluation Rating (UPER) for the month of February—marking an outstanding 13th consecutive month of leading all 18 police offices nationwide, with an overall adjectival rating of 85.18 percent.

More than a measure of performance, the UPER stands as a reflection of discipline, accountability, and operational2 effectiveness across the organization. It evaluates both operational and administrative capabilities—from crime prevention and law enforcement accomplishmen2ts to public safety initiatives—ensuring that every unit remains aligned with national priorities and committed to measurable, meaningful impact.

PRO7’s sustained leadership is a2 testament to the unwavering dedication of its personnel in intensifying anti-criminality efforts, strengthening police visibility, and nurturing enduring partnerships2 with the community. It is a reflection of an institution that performs with consistency and purpose, even amid transitions—proving that excellence is not dependent on circumstance, but embedded in culture.
Guided by the Chief, PNP, Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.’s mantra, “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” PRO7 continues to anchor its success on service that is swift, honest, and genuinely felt by the people it serves.

Acting Regional Director, Police Brigadier General Arnold E. Abad, commended the men and women of PRO7, stating:

“I extend my sincere congratulations to all PRO7 personnel for2 sustaining this remarkable milestone. Thirteen consecutive months at the top is no small feat—it speaks volumes of your dedication, discipline, and professionalism. Let us carry this momentum forward and continue elevating our standards in delivering police service that is responsive, accountable, and truly felt by our communities.”

With this continued recognition, PRO7 reaffirms its role as a pillar of peace and order in Central Visayas—demonstrating that sustained excellence is achieved through unity, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to serve.

23/04/2026