PNP Regional / Provincial News

JULY

Provincial News, Tuesday, July 29, 2008

1 killed, 6 injured in grenade launcher blast in Zambales

PALAUIG, Zambales, July 29 (PNA) -- A two-year old boy died on the spot, while six others were critically injured when a caliber 40mm M-203 grenade launcher the children found and played exploded at Sitio Dapla, Barangay Salaza, this town Monday. Zambales Provincial Police Office (ZPPO) Director, Sr, Supt. Rolando Felix identified the fatality as Jovani Olin and those still in critical conditions at President Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Hospital in Iba, Zambales were Cleverjay Olin, seven years old, Wilma Joy Gumayat, six; Lester Salio-an, nine; Jared Osad, six; John Joseph Osad, seven; and Jeremia assong, eight; all resident of Sitio Dapla, Barangay Salaza.

All victims sustained shrapnel wounds on the different parts of their bodies from the blast. Police Sr. Insp. Jose Rivera, Chief of Palauig Police Station said the incident took place at about 1 p.m. when the victims played the grenade launcher still loaded with ammunition they found.

M203 is a single shot 40 mm grenade launcher that attaches to the M16 assault rifle or the M4 Carbine used by the military of the United States. The children unaware of the danger, played with the launcher, hitting it hard with stones which triggered the explosion. (PNA)
ALM/FFC/MD/ps/mec

Provincial News, Thursday, July 17, 2008

Tarlac province registers highest crime solution efficiency of 94.32%

TARLAC CITY, July 15 (PNA) -- Tarlac Governor Victor Areno Yap commended the Tarlac Police Provincial Office (TPPO) for posting this year a crime solution efficiency (CSE) rate of 94.32 percent, the highest in the history of the province and in the region.

Yap lauded the TPPO led by Sr. Supt. Rudy G. Lacadin, Tarlac police director, during his first State-of-the-Province Address (SoPA) delivered at the Capitol during a regular session of the Sangguniang Panalalawigan last week. Hundreds of locals represented by the city and municipal mayors and leaders of government and private organizations attended the event to listen to the governor as he rendered his annual report.

Yap said the improvements in the province’s peace and order conditions paved for the entry of various local and international investors, mostly from the information and technology (IT) sector, providing jobs to thousands of Tarlaquenos.

Early this morning at the IT Park at Barangay San Isidro, Yap led ground-breaking rites for SITEL, one of the biggest call center stations in the country. SITEL had earlier opened training classes in preparation for its opening this year. “Peace raised investment levels in the province,” Yap said. “I commend our provincial police led by Sr. Supt Lacadin for posting a record-high CSE of 94.32 percent, up from 93 percent last year,” he said.

Yap also commended the commanders of the military units stationed in the province for the improvements in internal security.

In his SoPA, Yap cited the big contribution of the joint LGU-PNP-AFP (local government unit-Philippine National Unit-Armed Forces of the Philippines) declaration of a peace zone in four barangays in the hinterlands of San Jose town.

The zone of peace declaration was initiated by the governor's father, Rep. Jose “Aping” Yap, a member of the GRP Peace Panel, which prevented armed conflicts between government troops and local units of the New People’s Army (NPA) in that former “zone of conflict.” “Tarlac is indeed a model of peace in so many ways,” Yap said in his SoPA.

As the peace and order condition in the province improved, the governor also noted the “partnerships with the private sector that also helped bring about the implementation of more pro-poor projects, on top of the creation of thousands of jobs for Tarlaquenos.”

The partnerships also came in the form of job fairs regularly being held at the Capitol. “These partnerships with the private sector have been beneficial to our people, especially in providing jobs for the poor,” Yap said. (PNA)
LAP/ps/mec

JUNE

53 MCs held for “No Plate, No Travel Policy”

City of San Fernando – Fifty three (53) motorcycles were intercepted by the Pampanga police force following a series of amplified police operations on “No Plate, No Travel” policy being implemented by lawmen here.

Provincial Police Director PSSUPT Keith Ernald LL Siñgian cited the policy as a pre-emptive move against robbery incidents in which most of the cases were perpetrated by persons riding on vehicles without license plate numbers.

Siñgian said that the impounded motorcycles shall only be released upon presentation by the owner of proofs of ownership of said unit including the registration of same with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

This according to him is consistent with the Motor Vehicle Registration Law requiring all vehicles plying along the roads to register and be issued of their respective license plate numbers.

PD said that from mid-May to this date, the Pampanga PPO has already accounted fifty three (53) seized motorcycles with violations on expired registrations and from those vehicles without license plate numbers attributed as newly acquired MVs from dealers/stores.

Siñgian underscored that MVs sporting unauthorized commemorative and vanity plates were also included to be accosted on the implementation of said policy.

He further bared that criminal elements may take advantage and employ said unlawful practice to conceal their nefarious activities from justice.

Siñgian however made clear that though commemorative and vanity plates were approved by the LTO for a purpose, the original LTO plates should still remain visible and displayed at all times.

Meanwhile, PD made an appeal among motorists on the inconvenience that may result from the implementation of said policy and that they have to understand that the police are duty bound to implement such policy.

Provincial News, Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Sta. Cruz police recover missing mountaineer's body

STA. CRUZ, Zambales, June 25 (PNA) -- Authorities here retrieved a decomposing body of a male person believed to be one of the mountaineers that went out hiking at the height of typhoon Frank in Pundaquit mountain Sunday afternoon.

Police Chief Insp. Danny Lobaton, Sta. Cruz PNP chief, said at about 5:00 this morning, police operatives on board a fishing banca went out and retrieved the floating body of the still unidentified male person.

Lobaton described the victim wearing a tangerine t-shirt, black short pants and rubbers shoes, which matched the attires worn by the missing mountaineer, Thaddeus Reantaso, a member of AMCI Mountaineering Club, Inc., based in Makati City.

Lobaton said the rescue team was having difficulty bringing the body ashore because of the giant waves in Hermana Mayor coasts at the time of the operation.

Earlier, residents at Barangay Pundaquit recovered the backpack of the victim floating along the shore area.

Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Navy, Manila-based volunteer mountaineers from the University of Santo Tomas and University of the Philippines, and Angeles University conducted a round-the-clock search and rescue operation along coastal area at Pundaquit since Monday in search of Reantaso.

Two of Reantaso's colleagues identified as Joseph Felarca of Project 8, Quezon City and Joan Pimentel, died of drowning when their team was swept out by a strong current while crossing a creek at the foot of the Pundaquit mountain after hiking on Sunday. Nine of the mountaineers survived the incident.

Meanwhile, the police will bring the body to the nearest funeral parlor while waiting for the arrival of Reantaso's family and relatives to confirm the identity of the recovered body. (PNA)
DCT/MPC/MD/mec

PNP NEWS RELEASE 2008

Provincial News, Wednesday, June 25, 2008

Sta. Cruz police recover missing mountaineer's body

STA. CRUZ, Zambales, June 25 (PNA) -- Authorities here retrieved a decomposing body of a male person believed to be one of the mountaineers that went out hiking at the height of typhoon Frank in Pundaquit mountain Sunday afternoon.

Police Chief Insp. Danny Lobaton, Sta. Cruz PNP chief, said at about 5:00 this morning, police operatives on board a fishing banca went out and retrieved the floating body of the still unidentified male person.

Lobaton described the victim wearing a tangerine t-shirt, black short pants and rubbers shoes, which matched the attires worn by the missing mountaineer, Thaddeus Reantaso, a member of AMCI Mountaineering Club, Inc., based in Makati City.

Lobaton said the rescue team was having difficulty bringing the body ashore because of the giant waves in Hermana Mayor coasts at the time of the operation.

Earlier, residents at Barangay Pundaquit recovered the backpack of the victim floating along the shore area.

Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Navy, Manila-based volunteer mountaineers from the University of Santo Tomas and University of the Philippines, and Angeles University conducted a round-the-clock search and rescue operation along coastal area at Pundaquit since Monday in search of Reantaso.

Two of Reantaso's colleagues identified as Joseph Felarca of Project 8, Quezon City and Joan Pimentel, died of drowning when their team was swept out by a strong current while crossing a creek at the foot of the Pundaquit mountain after hiking on Sunday. Nine of the mountaineers survived the incident.

Meanwhile, the police will bring the body to the nearest funeral parlor while waiting for the arrival of Reantaso's family and relatives to confirm the identity of the recovered body. (PNA)
DCT/MPC/MD/mec

Provincial News, Saturday, June 14, 2008

15 injured in Bulacan fireworks factory explosion

MALOLOS CITY, June 13 (PNA) -- At least 15 laborers were injured when a series of powerful explosions rocked a big fireworks factory in Barangay Pinacpinacan, San Rafael, Bulacan on Friday.

Dragon Fireworks, owned by Joven Ong, is one of the pioneering and biggest fireworks company in the country. Its products are being sold in big malls and pyrotechnics stores in the country.

Police said four buildings of the Dragon Fireworks exploded and were razed to the ground around 11:30 a.m. Friday.

Reports reaching the Bulacan Police Provincial Office said an accident in one of the company's buildings caused an explosion that triggered a series of explosions in adjacent buildings, where workers were reportedly making Dragon fireworks products.

Acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said local police teams and firefighters rushed to the scene of the explosions and helped the injured victims, who were brought to the nearest hospital.

Bantolo said the San Rafael police are still investigating the cause of the accident that triggered the series of explosions, the first to hit Dragon Fireworks. (PNA)
LAP/FFC/EG/mec

Provincial News, Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Quarry firm top exec killed in Bulacan

MALOLOS CITY, June 9 (PNA) — A top official of a controversial marble quarrying firm was gunned down by two still unidentified assailants inside his car in Barangay Sta. Rita, San Miguel, Bulacan Sunday night.

Constantino Pascual y Pena, 57, married, president of Rosemoor Mining and Development Corporation (RMDC), died from multiple gunshot wounds.

The assailants were riding tandem on a red Yamaha RS motorcycle, according to a report from the San Miguel Police Station.

Police said the victim was sitting on the front seat of a red Toyota Vios (XLL-300) being driven by his son Ricky. The two had just attended an evening mass at the San Miguel parish church and stopped at the Jogis Chicharon store.

After parking the car in front of the store around 7:30 p.m., the suspects arrived and without warning shot the victim several times before fleeing to an unknown direction.

The victim’s son immediately brought his wounded father to the Emmanuel Vera Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival by attending doctors.

Ricky Pascual told investigators that he did not notice that they were being followed. He said his father’s attackers came from behind and suddenly shot him.

Police recovered six spent shells of caliber 45 pistol and two slugs of caliber 45.

The San Miguel Police headed by Supt. Romel Salac are still pursuing leads that may lead to the identification and apprehension of the suspects.

Police sources said they are considering a business angle as the possible motive behind the killing.

Pascual became controversial sometime in the year 2006 after figuring in a legal battle with the Provincial Government of Bulacan and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) concerning the quarrying of a rare variety of marble known as “tea rose” within the Biak na Bato National Park Mineral Reservation Area.

The extraction of “tea rose” marble and the operation of the RMDC were stopped after the DENR, then headed by Secretary Angelo Reyes, issued a suspension order against marble quarrying and other mining operations within the Biak-na-Bato National Park. (PNA)
LAP/EGG/ps/utb

Provincial News, Wednesday, June 5, 2008

4 goat rustlers nabbed in Bulacan

CAMP GENERAL ALEJO SANTOS, Bulacan, June 4 (PNA) — Four suspected members of a cattle-rustling gang were nabbed at a police checkpoint in Bustos town after stealing six goats in Barangay Bonga Menor in the said town Tuesday afternoon.

Police identified the suspects as Vergel Emeterio, 25, married, of Marikina City; Melvin Caino, 26, married, from Barangay Poblacion, San Jose del Monte City; Rodrigo Novera, 32, married, resident of Barangay Graceville, San Jose del Monte City and Michael Emeterio, 28, single, also from Marikina City.

Bulacan acting police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said a police team intercepted the suspects who were on board a tricycle with the stolen goats.

He said a farm owner reported to the Bustos police station that some of his goats were stolen by suspects who sped off on board a red Kawasaki tricycle without a plate number.

Bantolo said the Bustos police, together with village watchmen, immediately conducted hot pursuit on the suspects. Another police team established a roadblock where the suspects were flagged down and apprehended.

Aside from the goats, Bantolo said the police team also seized two ice picks, and one caliber .38 revolver with live ammunitions.

The suspects are believe to be members of a “cattle rustling gang” responsible for a series of farm robberies in Bustos and other towns in eastern Bulacan.

The suspects are detained at the Bustos municipal jail pending the filing of appropriate charges against them. (PNA)
LOR/FFC/EGG/MB/utb

Provincial News, Tuesday, June 3, 2008

Cops intensify checkpoints in Region 3

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, June 2 (PNA) – Police checkpoints and foot patrols have been intensified in Central Luzon with the view of flagging down motor vehicles with suspicious license or improvised number plates in connection with the police campaign against crimes.

Chief Supt. Errol T. Pan, regional police director, said he ordered the immediate intensification of checkpoints and deployment of more foot patrols to prevent commission of street crimes perpetuated with the use of motor vehicles and motorcycles.

Pan ordered all provincial and city police directors in the region to establish more checkpoints and deploy foot patrols to intensify the flagging down of motor vehicles and motorcycles, particularly those with suspicious license or improvised number plates or those with no license plates at all.

Pan also ordered the strict implementation of the “No plate, no travel ” policy of the Philippine National Police and the apprehension of motorcycle riders with no crash helmets or protective paraphernalia plying along public roads and thoroughfares.

He also ordered that suspicious riders and back-riders must be investigated within the reglamentary period of custody to determine the real intension of plying or driving vehicles in the area and subject vehicles in question will only be released when proof of authentic registration and ownership from the Land Transportation Office (LTO) are presented.

He also directed police commanders to deploy more men in the streets and increase police visibility in their areas of responsibility to pre-empt criminal elements in pursuing their criminal acts.

With the string of bank robberies, particularly the recent gruesome incident in Cabuyao, Laguna, where 10 persons were summarily executed by the suspects.

Pan directed his men to convene their respective Joint anti-Bank robbery Action committee (JABRACS) and reassess security measures to strengthen counter-measures to effectively neutralize bank robbery syndicates and exert utmost efforts to identify, arrest and prosecute perpetrators. (PNA)
LOR/FFC/AMR/ps/utb

MAY

Provincial News, Sunday, May 25, 2008

3 massacred in Bulacan

MALOLOS CITY, May 24 (PNA) -- Blood stained a poultry farm in the island village of Ubihan, Meycauayan City after a lone male suspect massacred a septuagenarian man and his two sons before robbing them of still undetermined amount of cash Friday afternoon.

Police identified the victims as Eladio dela Pena, 78, and his two sons Renato, 48 and Lusito, 42, all residents of Sitio Apugan, Brgy. Ubihan, Meycauayan City.

Investigators said the victims were resting at their house inside the poultry farm at around 3:30 p.m. Friday when the suspect appeared and without warning pulled out a knife and repeatedly stabbed them.

The victims sustained multiple stab wounds in the different parts of their bodies, police said.

The suspect, who was identified as Renito Armado Jr., alias “Unyong” fled on board a motorized banca after robbing the victims of still undetermined amount of cash.

Relatives of the victims brought them to the Gregorio Del Pilar District Hospital in the nearby town of Bulakan, Bulacan but was declared dead on arrival by attending doctors.

Acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said the Meycauayan City police arrested one Wilhermino Alcanar, the boatman who ferried the suspect out of the island village after the crime.

Bantolo said a special police team is now tracking down Armado Jr., for his immediate arrest while appropriate charges are being readied against the suspect and the boatman. (PNA)

LGI/EGG/rsm

Provincial News, Tuesday, May 20, 2008

PNP chief backs renovation, modernization of regional crime lab

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, May 19 (PNA) – Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Avelino Razon Jr, expressed his all-out support to the renovation and modernization of the Regional Crime Laboratory Office 3 (RCLO3).

This was announced by Razon during his visit over the weekend for a command conference and meeting with the Regional Peace & Order Council 3 (RPOC3) vice-chaired by Chief Supt. Errol T. Pan, Regional Director, Central Luzon Police.

Razon said modern technology plays a vital role in the solutions of crime incidents, "thus we have to invest on scientific and modern equipment not to mention our technocrats and experts in the filed of forensics.

The chief PNP lauded the officers and members of the RCLO3 headed by Police Supt. Daisy P. Babor for the early solution of sensational crimes committed in the region particularly the murder of starlet/model Scarlet Garcia and three others at the Gordon Heights in Olongapo City and the robbery with multiple rape that transpired at Villa Corazon Subdivision, City of San Fernando, Pampanga and all other solved cases through the aid of modern technology.

“The role of our crime laboratories cannot be underestimated in providing forensic assistance and technical support to PNP units, government agencies as well as non-government investigative entities that are very important in the solution of crime incidents particularly in Scene-of-the-Crime Operations (SOCO),” Razon said.

"In this computer age where everything is almost done in just one touch of a finger, we cannot afford to be left behind by our counterparts in the international police (INTERPOL) especially in the solutions of high profile crime incidents not only by our expert investigators but also entails the expertise of our technocrats in the field of forensics, hence, we really have to support our crime laboratories if we want results sure and fast," Razon said.

The PNP chief is eyeing the purchase of modern forensic laboratory equipment to sustain the ever increasing demands of the service in terms of scientific methods of investigation to maximize its capabilities in providing fast and timely delivery of service as part of his Integrated Transformation Program (ITP).

Razon gives priority to the requested P2.5 million needed for the renovation of the RCLO3 building here which was built in July 6, 1972, and the possible procurement of modern scientific equipment.

Pan, on the other hand, noted the significant accomplishments of RCLO3 and its high efficiency rating despite the scarcity of resources and manpower. He also informed Razon that through proper coordination with the local government executives (LGEs) in Central Luzon, the provincial crime laboratory offices are now operational. (PNA)

LAP/ps/utb

Provincial News, Monday, 19 May 2008

Maximum deployment of policemen

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, May 19 (PNA) – The Pampanga Provincial Police Office (PPPO) here bared that the “maximum deployment of policemen along commercial areas shall be undertaken to prevent occurrence of robberies.

PPPO officer in-charge Sr. Supt. Keith Ernald Singian said that he will augment the deployment of policemen in this capital city, particularly along the MacArthur Highway in barangay Dolores where most banks are located.

Singian directed Supt. Benjamin Medina, the newly installed city chief of police to intensify the conduct of both mobile and foot patrols along crime prone areas, especially during banking hours.

Singian said that Central Luzon regional police director Chief Supt. Errol Pan had vowed to augment the number of policemen assigned in this city with the reassignment of some 40 additional police personnel to the city police force.

“This will beef up visibility patrols as an effective crime deterrent in a bid to prevent occurrence of robberies in the City," Singian said.

Singian also said the newly assigned police personnel will be primarily deployed to intensify police visibility points where the Cambilan outposts are located.

He has revived the operational concepts of “5K” (Kapampangan Kapulisan Kayagape Kapayapaan) as a complementary crime prevention program of Cambilan.

He also directed Supt. Elvis Diaz, deputy provincial director for operations, to establish checkpoints along major thoroughfares.

The Provincial Mobile Group headed by Supt. Ricardo David has been tapped in conducting checkpoints on the outskirts of the province, which will be complemented by the checkpoints manned by Special Weapons And Tactics (SWAT) platoon on areas along the Lazatin Boulevard, SM City and Robinsons Starmills and its adjacent areas.

Singian reiterated his directive to all chiefs of police in the province “to amplify” the conduct of “No Plate, No Travel Policy”.

He said all motorcycles without license plates, with tampered license plates and without necessary documents to be shown by their riders like Official Receipt/Certificate of Registration will be impounded. (PNA)

LBV/ps/utb

Provincial News, Monday, 19 May 2008

Gun for hire gangman killed in Bulacan shootout

MALOLOS CITY, May 19 (PNA)-— One of two suspected members of a gun-for-hire gang who ambushed a Filipino-Chinese businessman last Sunday night was killed during a gun battle with pursuing lawmen Monday morning in a remote area in Bgy. Sta. Clara, Sta. Maria town.

Reports sent by Supt. Ronald “DJ” de Jesus, Sta. Maria police chief, to acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said that the slain suspect, who was riding tandem on a motorcycle with another gang member, ambushed one Lawrewnce Chua y Sy, 44, single, resident of Makati City along the bypass road in Bgy. Sta. Clara while driving his Nissan Frontier pick up truck.

Police said the victim had just left his farm in Bgy. Partida and was on his way to Makati when the two suspects on board a motorcycle blocked his path and without warning riddled his pick-up truck with bullets.

Chua sustained 7 gunshot wounds but none of them was fatal. The victim managed to drive his pick-up to the Mateo General Hospital and was later transferred to the Chinese General Hospital in Manila.

Bantolo said a police mobile team chased the two suspects but was fired upon. A brief exchange of gunfire ensued.

The suspects then abandoned their motorcycle and commandeered a car driven by by Gregorio Vicencio, 47, of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija who was at that time was passing the bypass road together with his family.

At gunpoint, the two suspects told the car occupants to get out of the vehicle. No one was harmed among the car occupants, police said.

However, the suspects failed to start the car and decided to escape by foot through the rice fields.

Bantolo said the Sta. Maria police headed by Supt. De Jesus was recovered, including the motorcycle used by the suspects, a .45 caliber pistol, several empty shells and a white polo shirt.

Bantolo said a follow up operation was conducted in Bgy. Sta. Clara after some residents reported to the police the presence of a suspicious looking man asking for a shirt.

Sensing that lawmen was pursuing him, the suspect, who remained unidentified as press time, tried to escape by running towards a creek but was spotted by the pursuing lawmen.

A firefight broke out resulting to the death of the suspects. No policemen was hurt in the shootout, Bantolo said.

De Jesus also reported to Bantolo that police are still tracking down the other suspect . Police are also investigating the motive of the ambush. (PNA)
LOR/EGG and Erick Silverio/utb

APRIL

National News, Saturday, April 26, 2008

Police foil dumping of toxic wastes in Bulacan creek

MALOLOS CITY, April 26 (PNA) — Police have foiled the dumping of suspected toxic and hazardous chemicals to a creek in the town of Pandi, Bulacan.

The police arrested eight people on board the two trucks loaded with drums containing toxic wastes.

Bulacan acting police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said the suspects will be charged with violation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

Chief Inspector Rene Cadion Asis, head of the arresting team, identified identified the suspects as Blandino Cabarles, 35; Mark Alfred Cabarles , 21, Michael Cabarles, 24, married; Aram Estrella, 20, single; Ronald Regados, 26, single, all residents of Graceville, Bgy. Tungkong Mangga, San Jose del Monte City; Joey Gonzales, 19, single; Jeffrey Timbang,21, both of Bgy. San Agustin, San Miguel, Bulacan and Jessie Camosco, 32, married, resident of Bgy. Camanyan, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

The police also intercepted one Isuzu forward truck (Plate number RDP 829) loaded with 40 container drums containing suspected toxic, corrosive and hazardous chemical waste and one Isuzu Elf truck (UPY 188) containing 83 empty recycled container drums suspected to have been previously used as containers of dangerous chemicals.

Earlier, residents have complained about obnoxious fumes emanating from the area.

RBC/EGG/ES/rsm

MARCH

Provincial News, Monday, March 31, 2008

Bulacan police digs deeper vs intl sex ring

CAMP GEN. ALEJO SANTOS, Bulacan, March 30 (PNA) — Central Luzon police director Chief Supt. Errol Pan on Sunday ordered the Bulacan police to dig deeper into the illicit recruitment networks of an international white slavery ring in the wake of reports that more than 100 Filipino women are holed up inside prostitution dens in the red light districts of Singapore and Malaysia working as “sex slaves”.

“Marami pa ding Filipina ang nabiktima at kasalukuyang pinagtatarabaho ng sindikato bilang mga sex slaves sa mga night clubs sa Singapore at Malaysia. Maaring nalansag natin ang local fronts sa Bulacan pero pinatutukan pa din natin sa Bulacan police ang lalim ng operasyon ng white slavery gang na ito,” Pan told local mediamen here.

Pan said that operatives of the Bulacan Police Provincial Office headed by acting police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo on Saturday arrested four suspected local managers of the international white slavery ring that ships Filipino women to Singapore and Malaysia to work as sex slaves.

Pan said the Bulacan Police have already coordinated with the Philippine Center for Transnational Crimes regarding the matter.

Bantolo identified the arrested suspects as Josephine Ocampo, of Pura, Tarlac; Chai Gabon Gastibio, of Caloocan City; Benjamin Estrella, of Bgy. Tiaong, Guiguinto, Bulacan; and a certain Charlotte alias “Candy” of Cabanatuan city.

The suspects will be charged of human trafficking and large scale illegal recruitment with no bail recommended, Bantolo said.

Bantolo and representatives from the governor’s office also rescued 10 women freshly recruited by the syndicate inside a rented apartment in Brgy. Dakila here Saturday afternoon.

They were identified as Berrylyn Timbol, 21, single; Maryann Timbol, 20, single; Miralyn Timbol, 27, single; all of Minalin, Pampanga; Lorinda Tabora, 22, single, of Mabalacat, Pampanga; Maribel Rapir, 26, single, of Sto. Tomas, la Union; Rachel Silva, 27, single, of Zamboanga del Norte; Jennifer Catapang, 20, single, of Gen. Tinio, Cavite; Shiella Marie Taripa-Miguel, 25, single, of San Isidro, Tarlac; Liezel Timbol, 24, single of San Isidro, Tarlac; and Marlin gallebo, 20, single of San Isidro, Tarlac.

The rescued women were promised to work as entertainers and waiters but once they set foot in prostitution dens Singapore and Malaysia, they are forced to work as sex slave, according to a former victim who tipped off the police about the activities of the white slavery gang being operated in the Philippines by a powerful Singapore-based mafia.

Bantolo said they were able to penetrate the local front of the white slavery ring by inserting a pretty policewoman who posed as a job seeker.

“Sinabi sa amin nung isang biktima na pinapadalhan ng sindikato ng plane ticket ang mga aplikante na pumasa sa mga nagpapatakbo ng prostitution den sa mga nasabing bansa. Pagdating doon, walang kamalay-malay ang mga biktima na pupuwersahin sila na gumawa ng mga sex acts para sa mga customers. Ang masakit dito ay isang beses lang daw pinapakain ang mga babae at walang perang ibinibigay sa kanila kaya no choice sila kundi gawin ang mga bagay na pinapagawa sa kanila para maka-survive sila doon,” Bantolo said.

The Bulacan police director also disclosed that the local fronts of the international white slavery ring operates in Tarlac, Pampanga, Bulacan Cavite and some parts of Mindanao. The local networks reportedly recruits women who were promised high-paying jobs in Singapore and Malaysia but eventually ends up as sex slaves there.

“We are still digging deeper into this. Base sa mga information aming nakuha, mukhang nationwide ang operation ng sindikatong ito,” Bantolo said.

Meanwhile, in a related development, five teenaged girls who were recruited to work as GRO in San Fernando, La Union were also rescued last Saturday by joint elements of the Malolos City police and the city Social Welfare office.

Bantolo said a team led by SP03 Leoncia de Belen of the Malolos City police womens desk and Anna Macaranas of the Malolos City Social Welfare Office went to the DSWD Home for girls in Agoo, La union after receiving reports that three teenaged girls sought refuge there after escaping from a local beerhouse in San Fernando, La Union where they were recruited to work as GROs.

Two more teenaged girls were rescued from the 3 Angels Bar in San Fernando, La Union and at the ROR beerhouse in Bacnotan, La Union, Bantolo said.

Police said the girls were recruited by Patricia Pangilinan-Pinote, 25, married and Eva Torres-Pinote, 18, single, both of Northville Resetllement village in Brgy. Bangkal, Malolos City.

Malolos City Mayor Danilo Domingo sent the team to La Union after relatives of the victms sought his help. (PNA)

LGI/EGG/ES/rsm

Provincial Saturday, March 29, 2008

International sex ring busted in Bulacan

MALOLOS CITY, March 29 (PNA) -— Police busted on Saturday an alleged major pipeline of a international white slavery ring that ships Filipina women to Singapore and Malaysia.

At the same time, the police announced that during an operation in Bgy. Dakila here, the arrest of four suspected local managers of the gang, have been effected.

Acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo said at least 12 newly recruited women, ages ranging from 18 to 30, were rescued by policewomen and representative from the office of Gov. Joselito Mendoza.

Bantolo did not disclose the identity of the arrested managers or recruiters, because a follow up investigation is still underway.

The women were rescued inside a rented house in Bgy. Dakila. Accting Provincial administrator Perly Mendoza and DSWD personnel said the government will help the women victims.

“This is the local pipepline of a Singaporean Mafia engage in white slavery. They forcetheir recruits to work in nightspots in Singapore and Malaysia,” Bantolo said.

Bantolo disclosed that the cops were able to infiltrate the local front by inserting a pretty policewoman who applied for the job and was accepted.

“The victims' phot are taken and sent over to their principals in Singapore and Malaysia. One they are accepted by the principals, a ticket and the corresponding funds are sent over for them to enable the traffciking of the lady sex den workers," Bantolo said.

Bantolo added that the women are being forced to do sexual acts with foreigners frequenting different prostitution dens in the said Asian countries.

Bantolo added that he has already coordinated with the Philippine Center for Transnational Crime, regarding the matter.

“We are still digging deeper into the local network of this international white slavery syndicate. This could only be the tip of the ice berg,” Bantolo said. (PNA)

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Provincial Saturday, March 29, 2008

23 illegal fishermen arrested, fish in 54 containers confiscated

MARIVELES, Bataan, March 28 (PNA)-– Police and Bantay Dagat personnel on Thursday afternoon arrested 16 fishermen allegedly while in the act of illegally fishing in the maritime waters of Mariveles.

The new arrested fishermen brought to 23 the number of those nabbed engaged in illegal fishing this week alone in the town, home of the Bataan Economic Zone, Bataan police chief Senior Supt. Manuel Gaerlan said.

He said that total fish confiscated in two apprehensions were contained in 54 plastic containers.

The fish were donated to the National Mental Hospital Branch and the Bureau of Jail Management, both in Mariveles.

The 16 fishermen, who are all residents of North Bay Boulevard in Navotas, Metro Manila, were on board fishing vessel “ Princess Jeroz-C” and were using fine mesh nets and active gear, fishing activities banned under the illegal fishing act, Gaerlan said.

Confiscated were 242 kilograms of assorted small fish in 22 containers. The fishing vessel was impounded and placed under the care of Bantay Dagat personnel in Mariveles.

The boat skipper and 15 of his crew were set for inquest and detained at the Bataan provincial Jail in Balanga Thursday afternoon, according to P/Insp. Dennis Orbista of the Bataan police provincial office.

Last Tuesday, lawmen apprehended seven fishermen from Mariveles along the prohibited waters of the town employing the method known as “Norway”. Confiscated from their fishing boat were various fish in 32 plastic containers.

Gov. Enrique Garcia has ordered an intensified campaign against illegal fishing that has affected thousands of fishermen in 11 out of 12 towns. Only Dinalupihan has no fishing village.

In May, a brand new four-seater helicopter worth P17 million is expected to arrive intended for the anti-illegal fishing and logging activities in the historic peninsula. (PNA)

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Provincial Tuesday, March 18, 2008

Three persons burned to death inside their car in Olongapo City

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, March 17 (PNA) -- Three persons were burned to death and a US citizen landed in serious condition after their vehicle was gutted by fire along the national highway in Barangay Kalaklan, Olongapo City, Saturday.

A belated report that reached Camp Olivas Monday from Sr. Supt. Abelardo Villacorta, Olongapo City Police director, identified those who were burned alive as Joseph Bryan, 41, a US citizen and resident of Barangay San Juan; Jessie Gines, 31, driver of Barangay Lipay, both of Palauig, Zambales and a still unidentified woman.

Villacorta said still undergoing medical treatment was Printin Kumar Mukherjee, 67, a US citizen of 166 Lakeshore Court, Richmond, California.

He said around 1 p.m. Saturday, the victims were on their way to Zambales on board a Mitsubishi L-300 van (zgv-926) but upon reaching Barangay Kalaklan, their vehicle caught fire.

Two residents in the area - Ronaldo Lansar, 25, and Lee Sintaran, 31 - who witnessed the incident, told police investigators that they heard an explosion from the victims’ vehicle.

After the explosion, they said, the whole van was gutted by fire, the report said.

Other residents helped Mukherjee who had burns in his body.

The three other fatalities were already burned alive inside the van, said Villacorta.

He said that Mukherjee was still confined at the James Gordon General Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Mukherjee told police that the fire started at the back portion of the van.

Police are still conducting probe on the cause of the fire. (PNA)

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FEBRUARY

Provincial News, Monday, February 18, 2008

Two gunrunners cum highway robbers nabbed in Bulacan

CAMP GEN. ALEJO SANTOS, Bulacan, Feb. 17 (PNA) — Two persons who were apprehended by a police mobile team in Bgy. Bangkal, Meycauayan City Saturday for riding in tandem on a motorcycle without helmets turned out to be holdupmen cum gun runners.

Acting Bulacan provincial police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo identified the suspects as Ronie Culianan, 22, tricycle driver, native of Bgy. Ubihan, Meycauayan City and Alvin Chico, 32, tricycle driver, a native of San Antonio, Nueva Ecija and presently residing in Bgy. Pandayan, Meycauayan City.

Bantolo said the suspects were flagged down by a police mobile team headed by SP03 Segundo Micosa who chanced upon them while riding a motorcycle without helmets.

While in the process of verification, Chico tried to conceal an object in the mid section of the motorcycle and when the police team checked it, it yielded a homemade “Smith and Wesson gun loaded with six live bullets.

When frisked, Culianan, the driver of the motorcycle, yielded two rounds of live ammunitions from his pocket, police said.

The two were brought to the Meycauayan City Police station where two complainants — identified as Melrose Parungao and Maricel Camba, both residents of Little Baguio, Bgy. Malhacan, Meycauayan City — positively identified the duo as the suspects who robbed and held them up in two separate incidents on Feb. 1 and 5 respectively.

When presented to the media, the two said they were on their way to a customer to sell the homemade gun.

Bantolo said charges for illegal possession of firearms and ammunitions will be filed against the suspects.

At the same time two separate criminal charges for robbery-hold up will also be filed against them for allegedly being responsible for the series of robbery hold-up in the said city.

The two were detained at the Meycauayan City Jail. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Thursday, February 14, 2008

Remaining suspect in brutal slay of RP consul's mom nabbed

CAMP GEN. ALEJO SANTOS, Bulacan, Feb. 13 (PNA) — “Justice has been served!”

Thus said acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo as he announced Wednesday that the case on the brutal slaying of the 74-year-old mother of the Philippine Consul to Australia two years ago is now closed, following the arrest of the remaining suspect.

Bantolo identified the arrested suspect as Rolando Villaverde y Mangahas, alias “Orly”, 26, a resident of Barangay Sta. Ana, Bulakan, Bulacan.

Villaverde is also listed as the No. 3 most wanted person in Bulacan, Bantolo added.

Bantolo said that Villaverde has a standing arrest warrant for the crime of robbery with homicide (Criminal Case No. 1866-M-2006) issued by Branch 81 of the Bulacan Regional Trial Court.

Villaverde was arrested during a raid on his safehouse in Taguig, Rizal by police intelligence operatives at around 4:45 Wednesday morning. He did not resist arrest, police said.

Police said that on the night of July 12, 2006, Villaverde, together with three other companions identified as Domingo Chico, Abet dela Cruz and Dennis Bautista sneaked inside the house of victim Rosalina Lazaro, widow, former principal of Bulacan Academy and mother of Phhilippine consul to Australia Teresa Lazaro, after removing the jalousy glasses of the bathroom window, which is adjacent to the victim’s room.

The victim was asleep when she was awakened and saw the suspects ransacking her room. One of the suspects pulled out an ice pick and repeatedly stabbed her. Police said the victim sustained 75 stab wounds.

Chico and Cruz have already been arrested and are now detained at the Bulacan Provincial Jail. Bautista was also arrested but died inside the jail due to an ailment.

Villaverde admitted during a press conference that he was one of those who sneaked into the house of the victim and participated in the robbery. He however denied that he has a part in the brutal slaying of Lazaro. He pointed to dela Cruz as the one who stabbed the former high school principal.

“Kasama po akong pumasok at tumangay sa mga alahas pero hindi ko po pinatay 'yung matanda,“ Villaverde said, adding that he and his companions were able to sell the jewelries for P10,000 somewhere in Manila.

Villaverde’s arrest came almost a week after Consul Lazaro paid him a visit and ask for the speedy solution of the case. The consul and Gov. Joselito Mendoza commended Bantolo and the Bulacan police for the solution of the case. (PNA)

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National News, Friday, February 08, 2008

CL police warns against illegal manufacturers, dealers, suppliers

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Feb. 8 (PNA) -– Chief Supt. Errol Pan Central Luzon police director warned the police force and the public against illegal manufacturers, dealers, suppliers and illegal use of Philippine National Police (PNP) uniforms as appropriate charged will be filed against them.

This is in line with the strict implementation of the right and proper wearing of the police uniform, which signifies with the theme of “Tamang Bihis for Mamang Pulis.”

The directive will intensify the implementation of the Letter of Instruction 2005- Tamang Bihis, which mandates the proper wearing of police uniform.

It is also a campaign against the illegal manufacture, distribution, sale and illegal use of PNP uniforms, insignias and other accoutrements including the materials for their production.

Supt. Baltazar Mamaril, Jr., regional public information officer, in an interview said the campaign is expected to minimize if not totally eradicate unauthorized or sub-standard uniforms, equipment and accoutrements that are available in the market.

Mamaril also said that the Task Force “Bantay Bihis” is operationally activated to supervise the massive campaign against the illegal manufacture, distribution, sale and use of police uniforms in order to successfully attain its full objective.

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Task Force Bantay Bihis was spearheaded by Sr. Supt. Alfredo Caballes, Deputy Regional director for Administration (DRDA) who is also Task Group (TG) Commander and Sr. Supt. Danilo Bautista Regional Personnel and Human Resource Development division as the deputy.

Caballes also administers the implementation of “Tamang Bihis” and other related laws in order to ensure proper wearing of standard uniforms by PNP personnel and stop the manufacture ad sale of unauthorized or sub-standard PNP uniforms and accessories.

Mamaril also warned police personnel for the on-the-spot inspection from the regional headquarters down to the police stations to ensure that the policemen are all complying and wearing the prescribed PNP uniforms.

Mamaril said all provincial and city police directors would also activate TG Bantay Bihis within their level and Sub-TGs on station level and designate deputy provincial directors. Chief directors as TG commanders. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Friday, February 08, 2008

Police recover hijacked truck in Bulacan

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- Police authorities recovered Tuesday a six-wheeler truck abandoned in Barangay Sumapang, Matanda, City of Malolos, Bulacan, which was reported hijacked in Rosario, La Union, over the weekend.

A belated report that reached Camp Olivas Thursday, said Malolos policemen were dispatched at said barangay after receiving report that the six-wheeler truck (XTK-927) was parked for almost two days there.

Responding policemen found Renato Santiago, 38, the driver of the truck and his helper Miguel Pepito, inside the vehicle, the report said.

When interviewed, the two told police that the truck loaded with 300 boxes of Jims 5-in-one coffee worth P1.5 million was en route to Baguio City when it was forcibly taken by five unidentified armed men.

Police said the path of the truck was blocked by the suspects on board a Toyota Innova. One of the suspects took control of the steering wheel.

The victims were dragged to the backseat of the truck then blindfolded and hogtied, the report said.

The suspects unloaded the goods in an unknown place, then left the truck and the victims in Bulacan, the report also said.

Recently, a delivery truck loaded with raw aircraft materials amounting to P2 million was also hijacked in Loacan Road in La Union, Pangasinan.

Police said the Isuzu Forward Wing van (RREA-174) was on its way to Baguio City when forcibly taken by four armed men on board a Toyota Revo without plate number.

The hijacked truck was also recovered abandoned in Barangay Pungo, Calumpit, Bulacan. The driver and its helper were also found inside the truck. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Friday, February 08, 2008

Teenage pusher nabbed in Malolos

MALOLOS CITY, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- Police anti-narcotics agents arrested a teenage dealer of high grade marijuana during a buy bust operation in Barangay Caingin here Wednesday afternoon.

In a report to acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo, Supt. Manuel M. Lukban Jr., Malolos City police chief, identified the arrested suspect as a certain “M. Acuna”, 17, single and a resident of said barangay.

The buy bust operation was conducted in coordination with agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Lukban said.

Lukban said that a police poseur buyer was able to bought six packs of high grade marijuana fruiting tops, worth P300, from the suspects during a drug entrapment operation.

Aside from marijuana, police also recovered the marked money used in the buy bust operation.

Charges for violation of RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, will be filed against the suspect.

Late last month, Malolos police anti-narcotics agents arrested Edison Lascano, 24, of Barangay Santisima Trinidad here and Erwin Laguna, 32, of Barangay Longos, Pulilan town.

More than two kilos of high grade marijuana flowering tops were seized from the two suspects, who admitted that they are peddling marijuana through text messages.

Bantolo said that these arrests are part of the ongoing all out war against the proliferation of illegal drugs in the province being waged by Bulacan police. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Thursday, February 07, 2008

Nine women, five minors performing lewd shows rescued

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- Combined operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit and the Tarlac police on Tuesday rescued 14 women, five of them minors, during an operation in a bar in San Sebastian, Tarlac City.

Sr. Supt. Guillermo Lorenzo Eleazar, Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit 3 (CIDU3) regional officer, said the police operation was launched against Secret Place KTV Bar located at Chuchi Avenue, San Sebastian.

Rescued by operatives during the raid were Maria Gycelle Bonagua y So, resident of #350 Magnolia St., Angeles City; Yhuri Corato y Fabio, resident of Barangay San Sebastian, Tarlac City; Mia Roxas y Montes, residing at Upper Tibagan, Gen. T. de Leon, Valenzuela City; Edelyn Santos y Cabrera, resident of Calle Ines, Concepcion, Tarlac; and Rowena Ann Repusar y Garcia, resident of San Jose, Magalang, Pampanga, all 17 years old and working as entertainers/models at the Secret Place KTV bar.

Bonagua was caught in the act of performing a dance number naked in front of the bar customers, Eleazar said.

Nine other women rescued were Ana Cristina Villajos y Quilicot, 23, resident of Tondo, Manila, alleged supervisor of the bar; Cyril delos Santos y Quiambao, 20, resident of San Rafael, Tarlac; Noemi Quiambao y Soliman, 31, of Sta. Cruz, Concepcion, Tarlac; Pearl Joy Tolentino y Quiazon, 19, residing at Barangay San Francisco, Tarlac City; Catherine Balane y Mernilo, 25, of Cainta, Rizal, all waitresses; Michelle Fabian y Alcoriza, 21, of Barangay Lourdes, Minalin, Pampanga; Racquel Sneider y Sebastian, 22, resident of A 26 Temporary Market, Angeles City; Rowena Tolentino y Hernandez, 20, resident of Don Bosco, Mabalacat, Pampanga; Mylene Odejar y dela Cruz, 22, resident of Bonuan, Gueset, Dagupan City, all models/ dancers of the bar and working without necessary permits.

The raiding team arrested and invited the manager of the bar, identified as Abelardo Garcia, 28, of Barangay Paraiso, Tarlac City and a certain Ronald Magtubo, 47, resident of Magalang, Pampanga, business consultant.

Eleazar said that the alleged owner of the bar, Carlo Manalastas of San Sebastian, Tarlac City, was not around during the police operation.

The rescued women were taken to the Tarlac Provincial Police Office for documentation and proper disposition while appropriate charges of Anti-Trafficking in Person Act of 2003 and Health and Sanitation Code are being readied for filing in court against the owner and manager of the bar. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Thursday, February 07, 2008

Teenage pusher nabbed in Malolos

MALOLOS CITY, Feb. 7 (PNA) -- Police anti-narcotics agents arrested a teenage dealer of high grade marijuana during a buy bust operation in Barangay Caingin here Wednesday afternoon.

In a report to acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo, Supt. Manuel M. Lukban Jr., Malolos City police chief, identified the arrested suspect as a certain “M. Acuna”, 17, single and a resident of said barangay.

The buy bust operation was conducted in coordination with agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Lukban said.

Lukban said that a police poseur buyer was able to bought six packs of high grade marijuana fruiting tops, worth P300, from the suspects during a drug entrapment operation.

Aside from marijuana, police also recovered the marked money used in the buy bust operation.

Charges for violation of RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, will be filed against the suspect.

Late last month, Malolos police anti-narcotics agents arrested Edison Lascano, 24, of Barangay Santisima Trinidad here and Erwin Laguna, 32, of Barangay Longos, Pulilan town.

More than two kilos of high grade marijuana flowering tops were seized from the two suspects, who admitted that they are peddling marijuana through text messages.

Bantolo said that these arrests are part of the ongoing all out war against the proliferation of illegal drugs in the province being waged by Bulacan police. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Wednesday, February 06, 2008

Kidnapped Indian national rescued in Pampanga

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Feb. 5 (PNA) -- Agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (CIDU) here rescued on Tuesday an Indian national who was kidnapped by armed men last Monday.

CIDU Region 3 officer Sr. Supt. Guillermo Eleazar said Dalvir Singh, a 35-year-old businessman of Sto. Rosario, Angeles City, was rescued in Barangay Mabini, Dinalupihan, Bataan.

Eleazar said Sigh was abducted by four armed men in front of Basa Air Base in Floridablanca town Monday morning.

Relatives of the victim said the kidnappers were demanding P500,000 for the release of Singh. The amount has reduced to P100,000 after a negotiation.

The pay-off has been set in Dinalupihan but after sensing the presence of lawmen, the kidnappers fled and left Singh.

A manhunt operation has been launched against the suspects who fled on board a car towards east direction. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Tuesday, February 05, 2008

Hijacked van recovered in Bulacan

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Feb. 4 (PNA) -– Police operatives recovered over the weekend a hijacked van along the Calumpit-Pulilan road in Barangay Pungo, Calumpit, Bulacan.

In his report here, Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo, Bulacan provincial police director, said the recovered one Isuzu Forward Wing van (REA-174) was abandoned at the said area and hijacked along Loacan road by five armed men on board a Toyota Revo.

The van, loaded with raw aircraft materials amounting to P2 million, was on its way to Baguio City when forcibly taken by the suspects from the driver identified as Rogelio Escortal.

The report said the Toyota Revo blocked the path of the van.

One of the suspects then alighted and at gunpoint announced the heist, police said.

A Barangay Tanod informed the Calumpit Police about the abandoned truck at the shoulders of Calumpit-Pulilan road.

Police found the driver and his helper Bernabe Repol hogtied and blindfolded inside the van.

The driver of the truck in a photo gallery of the police identified one of the suspects as a certain Joselito Baltes, alias Kirat, of Tondo, Manila.

Baltes, allegedly the leader of the notorious Pier Gang operating in Central Luzon, particularly in Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga and Tarlac.

Police operatives of Calumpit are conducting manhunt operations against the suspects. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Sunday, February 3, 2008

Zambales PNP seizes ship loaded with hot mineral cargoes

IBA, ZAMBALES, Feb. 2 (PNA) – The local police confirmed on Saturday, the seizure of an ocean-going vessel and a barge fully loaded with allegedly undocumented chromite and nickel ore at a private seaport in Sta. Cruz town.

Sr. Supt Rolando B. Felix, new Zambales PNP chief, said that the ship, M/V Globetrotter, a Greek owned vessel and the barge are allegedly operated by Bueno Coady International Corporation (BICT) and A3UNA, a local mining firm.

In a report to PNP Chief Avelino Razon Jr., the local police said they have invited the ship captain, whose identity they have yet to provide, except to say that he is a Greek national and the crewmembers of the barge.

At presstime, the ships' crew members are still under investigation by the authorities.

Earlier, PNP Director General Avelino Razon ordered his men to effect the seizure of the ship, after learning from a Zambales Court that the vessels were loading illegally mined ores.

Responding to a complaint filed by the David M. Consunji Mining Company (DMCMI), Judge Consuelo Bocar of RTC Branch 71 issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) against the A3Una, its rival mining firm, which allegedly violated its mining rights. Hence, the shipment of the product was stopped.

In a related development, Felix conducted peace forum for mining operators in the area, to thresh out issues, promote peace and settle disputes particularly on territorial boundaries and area claims of owners.

Represented in the forum were mining companies, including: Lexcen Mining Corp.; A3UNA; BCITC; DMCMI; Citigroup; Perlas; Prime Peak; Fil-Asian; Deli-Deli Enterprise; Eramen Mines; Fil-Asian TCU Pinoy and Benguet Corporation.

Zambales is one of the Philippines' mineral rich provinces and its resources could be quantified to reach at least US$ 65-B. (PNA)

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JANUARY

Provincial News, Thursday, January 31, 2008

Three suspected murderers fall

BALAGTAS, Bulacan, Jan. 31 (PNA) — Police on Wednesday arrested the number 8, 9 and 10 most wanted criminals in this down during an operation in a remote area in Barangay San Juan here.

The suspects were arrested after six years in hiding, police said.

Supt. Emma H. Libunao, Balagtas police chief , identified the arrested suspects as brothers Romy, 31, and Edgar Magnayon, 22, and their cousin Domingo Diaz, 48, all residents of said barangay.

Libunao said the three have standing warrants of arrest issued by Bulacan RTC Branch 17 Judge Teresita Diaz Baldoz with a recommended bail of P40,000 each.

The three were arrested in a remote area in Sitio Maalat, Barangay San Juan after a week long surveillance, Libuanao added.

The three went into hiding after stabbing to death a relative, identified as Marlon Magnayon, on December 9, 2002.

Libunao said that after the killing, the three went into hiding somewhere in Leyte and Samar. She said that the three probably thought that the crime they committed have already been forgotten and that they may not be recognized anymore and decided to return and hide in Barangay San Juan.

The three were presented to the Bulacan RTC Branch 17 and were subsequently committed to the Bulacan Provincial Jail. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Thursday, January 31, 2008

Pampanga police vow to bust carnapping in San Fernando

SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga, Jan. 31 (PNA) -- Police Provincial Director Sr. Supt. Keith Ernald Singian today vowed to bust in a span of one week the reported resurgence of carnapping activities in the City of San Fernando as claimed by the business sector.

Singian gave his marching orders to all Chiefs of Police to strengthen police operations with emphasis on “TASK GROUP CATCH YOU“, a Provincial Anti-Carnapping Task Group which sets forth the guidelines in the aggressive conduct of Anti-Carnapping/Carjacking operations, in close coordination with the judicial courts and Regional Traffic Management Office 3.

Singian added that said task group aims to identify, neutralize and prosecute suspected carnapping syndicates, their financiers operating within the Kapampangan areas of the region.

The latter tapped P/Supt. Gregorio N. Lim, Deputy Provincial Director for Operations, as the Task Group Commander to include all municipal police stations and 310th PMG as operating units.

Singian has directed the strictest implementation of said Task Group while updates on OB factors and target list of suspected car thieves/unscrupulous traders of stolen vehicle parts are current. He sought an immediate development of case build-up against carnappers/carjackers and suspected traders of stolen vehicle parts.

He also mandated sthe chief of the investigation branch to facilitate appropriate Warrants of Arrest to all suspected carnappers/carjackers and unscrupulous traders of stolen vehicle parts.

He mandated a thorough conduct of investigation and subsequent filing of cases on all arrested carnappers and unscrupulous traders of stolen vehicle parts. (PNA)

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Pampanga PPO News Release No. 81-0124
Authority: POLICE SENIOR INSPECTOR MAYLANIE D CASTILLO
Public Information Office: Pampanga PPO, Sto Niño, City of San Fernando
Telefax: (6345)9633874) e-mail: pio_pampppo@yahoo.com
Date: Thursday, January 24, 2008

PAMPANGA COPS SHOWCASES MODERNIZED POLICE STATION

Cops here inaugurated yesterday a three (3) storey modernized building which will house the local police of Minalin, Pampanga.

PSSUPT KEITH ERNALD LL SIÑGIAN, Provincial Director of Pampanga PPO led the simple rites of Unveiling the Marker and Blessing proper which was attended by all sectors of the community.

Siñgian in part has expressed his overwhelming thankfulness and gratitude on the support of the local government units and the community.

PRO3 Regional Director PCSUPT ERROL T PAN graced the occasion and has encouraged other Provincial Directors of the region to do the same efforts of PNP building initiatives.

PD has stated that the construction of the Minalin police station is a realization of a vision on the PNP’s Integrated Transformation Program on Facilities Development.

Siñgian also introduced PCSUPT PAN among Minaleños, whom he explicitly described as “traffic czar” of the Traffic Management Group during his stint at said NSU.

He uttered his gratefulness to PCSUPT ERROL T PAN and the efforts and initiative made by Minalin Mayor Edgardo Flores with the massive support of the business sector and residents of Minalin.

“The improvement of the working condition and enhancement of the welfare and benefits of the Pampanga Police is tantamount to quality police service,” said PD.

PD furthered that completion of a modern police station in Minalin is an indication of the close partnership between the Mamang Pulis and the community.

“Improvements made on the structure will strengthen law enforcement capabilities of the Minalin police with its spacious area and capability to accommodate influx of people who needs assistance,” said Siñgian.

The 600 square meters lot was donated to the Pampanga police sometime in the year 2006 by virtue of a Deed of Donation. Said 3-storey police building was provided with funding from the PNP and the LGU estimated to be P4.5 million pesos.

Minalin is categorized as class B municipality and hence one of the few modern police stations in Pampanga among six in the entire Central Luzon.

During a small talk with PSSUPT Siñgian, Mayor Flores revealed the willingness of the business sector of Minalin to donate and support the new police station on its need for equipment.

The blessing rites was officiated by Rev. Msgr. Eugenio Mercado Jr, who is a Minaleño himself. Also present were Vice Mayor Edgardo Yambao, members of the Sangguniang Bayan, Barangay Capatains, Sangguniang Kabataan officials, members of the media, teachers associations, local folks of Minalin and the officers and men of the Pampanga Police.

Provincial News, Thursday, January 24, 2008

3 dead, 11 others seriously wounded in vehicular accident

DINALUPIHAN, Bataan, Jan. 23 (PNA) - Three Aetas died while 11 others who were about to attend a fiesta were seriously wounded in a head-on collision between the passenger jeepney they were riding and a big trailer truck owned by FedEx in Barangay Roosevelt, Dinalupihan town at dawn on Wednesday.

FedEx truck driver Danny Baja of Caloocan City, Metro Manila, said they came from their office inside the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and was bound for Manila when the accident happened.

The driver of the trailer truck with body No. 205 and plate No. TWL-632 refused to answer further questions.

Edward Bayan of Capas, Tarlac; driver of the passenger jeepney with plate No. CXC 300, was wounded and confined at the James Gordon Memorial Hospital in Olongapo City.

Police Officer 2 Dennis Abad, Dinalupihan police investigator, identified the fatalities as Albina Bruno, Consolacion Morales and Ofelia Canonisado. Bruno was declared dead on arrival at the Jose Payumo Memorial Hospital in Dinalupihan while Morales passed away at 7:15 a.m. at the same hospital.

The bodies of the two victims were brought to the nearby Ventura Funeral Homes in Dinalupihan.

Canonisado was rushed to the James Gordon Memorial Hospital in Olongapo City but later died while undergoing treatment.

In critical condition with injuries on the heads and other parts of the body are Lanie dela Cruz, Ana May dela Cruz, Carlito dela Cruz, Olive Canonisado, Dorie Morales, Matet Evangelista, Irene Morales, Lotsie Morales, Michelle Evangelista and Rolando Evangelista.

Three of those injured are children aged one to three years old. All the fatalities were members of the Aeta tribe from Sta. Juliana, Capas in Tarlac and so with the wounded.

Police said three of those injured were left at the Dinalupihan hospital while seven were transferred to the Olongapo City hospital. A police investigator said the three will also be transferred to the James Gordon memorial Hospital.

One of those being treated at the Dinalupihan hospital said there were 30 of them, 10 of whom were children, on board the passenger jeepney bound for Poon Bato in Botolan, Zambales to attend a fiesta.

He said the accident happened so fast and he could not recall what really happened. He said he saw that many of his companions were bloodied and crying.

A woman fruit vendor nearby said they heard a big bang at about 4:30 in the morning and later found the big trailer truck and the passenger jeepney at the middle of the road in Roosevelt.

Roosevelt is just some meters away from the Tipo toll road, the entrance to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

Police are still investigating what caused the accident. (PNA)

LAP/Ernie B. Esconde

Provincial News, Wednesday, January 23, 2008

1,429 police personnel promoted

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Jan. 22 (PNA) – A total of 1,429 police personnel of Police Regional Office (PRO) Region 3 received promotion to the next higher rank.

PRO-3 director and chief Supt. Errol T. Pan said the mass promotion of the 1,429 police personnel was made during last Monday's traditional flag raising ceremony at Camp Olivas.

Among those promoted include 17 police chief inspectors to police superintendents, 27 to police chief inspectors, 27 to police senior inspectors, 10 to police inspectors, 21 to senior police officer 4, 19 to SPO3, 24 to SPO2, 238 to SPO1 and 1,046 to Police Officer 3.

Pan said that the mass promotion was based on the Philippine National Police (PNP) Regular Promotion Program for 2007.

He said that of the total figure, 81 were Police Commissioned Officers (PCOs) and 1,348 belong to the rank and file Police Non-Commissioned Officers (PNCOs).

During the mass pinning of ranks, Pan congratulated the newly promoted police officers.

In his message, Pan emphasized the advocacy of the “Mamang Pulis” to serve and protect and be servants to the people first and foremost.

"It is but fitting to reward police personnel, men and women alike, commissioned or non-commissioned officers for their dedication and loyalty to the police service," Pan said.

Pan said the 1,429 were part of the 20,000 police personnel who got promotion nationwide.

"Actually, the mass pinning of ranks were done simultaneously in all the PROs nationwide," Pan added. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Two more drug dealers nabbed in Bulacan bust

MALOLOS CITY, Jan. 22 (PNA) -- Police anti-narcotics agents scored anew Tuesday after busting two major suppliers of marijuana in this city and neighboring Plaridel town.

This, after seven drug dealers and six drug users were arrested in a series of anti-drug operations in different parts of the province over the weekend.

Supt. Manuel M. Lukban Jr., city police chief, identified the arrested suspects as Edison Lascano, 24 of Barangay Santisima Trinidad here and Erwin Laguna, 32, of Barangay Longos, Pulilan town.

More than two kilos of high-grade marijuana flowering tops were seized from the suspects.

Lukban said the duo are the main distributors of marijuana here.

The suspects admitted that they were distributing and selling marijuana to buyers through text messages.

Charges for violations of Republic Act 9561 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act will be filed against the suspects. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Seven dope dealers, six other users nabbed in Bulacan

CAMP GEN. ALEJO SANTOS, Bulacan, Jan. 21 (PNA) -- Seven suspected drug dealers and six drug users, including an Israeli national, were busted during a series of anti-drug operations in different parts of the province over the weekend.

Acting Bulacan police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo identified the arrested dope dealers as Salvador Pascual of Bgy. Dampol, Pulilan; Sesinando Matic, Noel Veneracion, both residents of Poblacion, Baliuag; Antonio Cruz of Sto. Cristo, Pulilan; Danilo Cabanting, Eric Proquinto, both of Tugatog, Meycauayan City and Efren Reyes of San Sebastian, Hagonoy, Bulacan.

Bantolo said the suspected drug dealers were nabbed during a series of buy bust operations conducted by the Bulacan PNP Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Division-Special Operation Task Force (PAID-SOTF), headed by Sr. Insp. Isagani V. Enriquez.

Seized from the suspects were still undetermined quantity of shabu, drug paraphernalia and the marked money used in the buy bust operation.

Bantolo also identified the Israeli national as Samer Mohammad, 40, a technician married to a Filipina and presently residing in Malahacan, Meycauayan City.

Mohammad was arrested while having a pot session with two other suspects who were identified as Raymond Mallari, 23, and Alfredo Alcantara, 42, during a raid in a suspected dope den in Barangay Malhacan, Meycauayan City Saturday night, Bantolo added.

The three other alleged drug users were identified as Ryan Cruz, Dranreb Abrina, both of Barangay Dampol, Pulilan and Eduardo Sercenia of San Vicente, Sta. Maria, Bulacan.

Bantolo warned those who are engaged in the distribution of illegal drugs that more raids and buy bust operations will be conducted by the PAIF-SOTF in the coming days. He said the Bulacan police are coordinating with local and barangay officials as well as community leaders in gathering information on suspected dealers in their respected areas.

Charges for violations of RA 9165, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act will be filed against the suspects, Bantolo said. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Friday, January 18, 2008

2 motorcycle riding-men shot police colonel

LIMAY, Bataan, Jan. 18 (PNA) -- A retired police colonel on Thursday afternoon died while being operated at a hospital after he was shot by two unidentified motorcycle-riding men in front of his residence in Reformista, Limay, Bataan.

Police officer 1 Melchor Asebias, Jr., duty investigator of the Limay municipal station, said retired P/Senior Supt. Bonifacio Cacho, who served as intelligence officer of the Bataan police command, died from five gunshot wounds at the Isaac and Catalina Medical Center in Balanga City.

Police recovered eight empty shells from caliber .45 revolver at the crime scene. Bullet marks were found at the concrete wall of the house.

Police said the victim was cleaning his car outside the gate of their residence when the two men on board a red motorcycle arrived at 10:20 a.m. Thursday. Then the back rider alighted and pumped bullets on the former police officer who was engrossed with his work, the investigator said.

A worker narrated he heard successive shots that he thought came from firecrackers.

The police investigator said the suspects came from the nearby Roman Superhighway and exited towards the town proper after the shooting.

Reports said the victim reached the compulsory retirement age of 56 years last year. Cacho spent most of his police life in Bataan and Pampanga. He left three children, one of whom is also a police officer.

Motive for the killing was still unknown.(PNA)

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Provincial News, Saturday, January 12, 2008

NPAs burn Smart cell site in Aurora

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Jan. 11 (PNA) -- The Smart cell site in Aurora province was attacked and torched by suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA), early dawn Friday.

In his report here, Sr. Supt. Teofilo Teope, Aurora provincial police director, said that at about 1:00 a.m. Friday, an undetermined number of rebels attacked and burned the SMART cell site located at Barangay Esteves, Casiguran, Aurora.

A lone unidentified security guard detailed at the cell site was wounded when shot by the rebels who were on board a 6x6 truck, said Tiope.

The report said the guard was taken to a nearby hospital.

Upon receipt of the report, Teope said that he immediately dispatched a team of Casiguran Police and 302nd Aurora Provincial Mobile group to the area but the rebels have already left.

The police official also said he ordered all police stations in the province to establish a checkpoint to arrest the rebels, who fled to unknown directions.

One team of policemen proceeded to the area to conduct a thorough investigation.

Failure to pay revolutionary taxes may be the cause of the burning of the Smart cell site in Aurora, said the report. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Saturday, January 12, 2008

Razon relieves 2 provincial police directors in Central Lu‏zon

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Jan. 11 (PNA) -- Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Avelino Razon ordered Friday the relief of two provincial directors in Central Luzon.

Chief Supt. Errol T. Pan, head of Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3), said Sr. Supt. Arrazard Subong, Zambales provincial police director was ordered relief from his post for having consuming his two-year tour of duty.

On the other hand, the relief order of Sr. Supt. Agripino Javier, acting provincial director of Nueva Ecija police, was due to political reasons.

Sr. Supt. Rolando Felix, a member of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) Class ’85 replaces Subong while Sr. Supt. Napolcon Taas, a member of the PMA class ’84, replaces Javier.

Felix said Pan was formerly assigned at the National Headquarters in Camp Crame in Quezon City, while Taas was formerly assigned at the Office of the Chief PNP also in Camp Crame.

On Tuesday, Sr. Supt. Manuel Gearlan, formerly director of the Regional Mobile Group, was installed as officer-in-charge of Bataan provincial police office.

Gearlan is a member of PMA Class ’85, Pan said.

In less than five days, three provincial police directors in Central Luzon were relieved from their posts.

Pan said that the relieved orders of Subong and Javier came from the Office of Sr. Supt. Edgardo Acuna of the PNP personnel in Camp Crame. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Saturday, January 12, 2008

Suspected illegal recruiter nabbed

ANGELES CITY, Jan. 11 (PNA)-– The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested an illegal recruiter after she received marked money from her alleged victim during an entrapment in the City of San Fernando Wednesday.

Supt. Florendo Saligao, CIDG Pampanga provincial officer identified the illegal recruiter as Nimfa Pineda after she received P30,000 from a victim applicant.

The P1,499 marked money wase recovered from Pineda during the entrapment operation inside the 7-11 convenience store at the town proper.

Pineda was charged for Estafa of Republic Act 80-40-Protection and Promotion of the Welfare of Migrant Workers) based on the complaint of five victims.

Saligao identified the victims of Pineda as Rember Dayrit, Elmer Basilio, Wilfredo Basilio, and Christian Guinto all of barangay San Nicolas, City of San Fernando and Marvin Punla of Mexico, Pampanga.

The victims said that Pineda promised them jobs in Dubai and charged them a fee of P11,000 each. They said that last December, they gave down payment to Pineda. Pineda gave them entry permits for Dubai which were found to be fake.

Reports of the CIDG showed that Pineda is not accredited by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and is not licensed to recruit workers abroad. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Friday, January 11, 2008

Top CPP-NPA leader captured

MALOLOS CITY, Jan. 11 (PNA) - A ranking communist leader with a P1 million prize on his for his capture, dead or alive, was arrested by a team of military-police operatives inside a cockpit in Sta. Maria, Bulacan on Thursday. of the Communist Party of the Philippines - New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) was captured inside a cockpit arena in Sta. Maria, Bulacan Thursday afternoon.

Bulacan acting police director Sr. Supt. Allen Bantolo, Bulacan acting police director, said Egleserio Pena, alias "Ka Tsoy", secretary of the Albay Provincial Committee and member of the Bicol Regional Party Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and New People's Army (CPP/NPA), did not resist when he was served a warrant for his arrest by operatives of the Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Bulacan police.

The warrant was issued by the Legazpi City Regional Trial Court against Pena who is facing a string of criminal cases such as arson, highway robbery and bribery.

Pena was watching a cockfight inside the Sta. Maria Cockpit Arena when he was arrested at 5:30 Thursday afternoon.(PNA)

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Provincial News, Friday, January 11, 2008

Suspected illegal recruiter nabbed

ANGELES CITY, Jan. 11 (PNA)-– The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested an illegal recruiter after she received marked money from her alleged victim during an entrapment in the City of San Fernando Wednesday.

Supt. Florendo Saligao, CIDG Pampanga provincial officer identified the illegal recruiter as Nimfa Pineda after she received P30,000 from a victim applicant.

The P1,499 marked money wase recovered from Pineda during the entrapment operation inside the 7-11 convenience store at the town proper.

Pineda was charged for Estafa of Republic Act 80-40-Protection and Promotion of the Welfare of Migrant Workers) based on the complaint of five victims.

Saligao identified the victims of Pineda as Rember Dayrit, Elmer Basilio, Wilfredo Basilio, and Christian Guinto all of barangay San Nicolas, City of San Fernando and Marvin Punla of Mexico, Pampanga.

The victims said that Pineda promised them jobs in Dubai and charged them a fee of P11,000 each. They said that last December, they gave down payment to Pineda. Pineda gave them entry permits for Dubai which were found to be fake.

Reports of the CIDG showed that Pineda is not accredited by the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and is not licensed to recruit workers abroad. (PNA)

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Provincial News, Tuesday, January 01, 2008

Ex-NPA rebel slain on New Year's Eve

BOTOLAN,ZAMBALES, Jan. 1 (PNA) -- A former NPA rebel returnee was shot to death by a still unidentified gunman while sitting at the Mariposa Park town plaza on New Year's eve.

Police identified the victim as Marcelo Cabalic alias "Celo", 25, single and resident of Loobbunga.

Reports disclosed that the victim suffered a gunshot wound in his pancreas and left lung which caused his instant death.

The victim is reportedly a former NPA rebel and at present the leader of a syndicate crime group involved in cattle rustling with the Bonnet gang operating in Zambales and Western Pangasinan. (PNA)

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