The Philippine National Police has arrested all three identified suspects in the fatal shooting of a 73-year-old American marine biologist in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, three days after the crime.
The victim, who lived in Barangay Ajong, was killed during a robbery inside his residence on July 12, 2026. His live-in partner survived after being restrained by the perpetrators.
Initial investigation showed that the suspects took cash, travel documents, identification cards, a laptop, and other personal belongings from the residence.
Following an intensive investigation, police identified the alleged perpetrators and launched follow-up operations.
A 26-year-old suspect identified by the alias “M.O.,” who is believed to have been the gunman, was arrested on the evening of July 15 in Sibulan.
Another suspect known by the alias “J.F.” was arrested later that evening in the same municipality.
At around 4:06 a.m. on July 16, a 21-year-old suspect identified by the alias “C.D.,” who allegedly served as the lookout, voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for their swift and coordinated response.
“Sa loob lamang ng tatlong araw, naaresto at napasuko ang lahat ng mga natukoy na suspek. Ipinapakita nito na kapag mabilis ang koordinasyon at masinsinan ang imbestigasyon, mas mabilis din nating naihahatid ang hustisya. Patuloy nating titiyakin na ang bawat kaso ay masusing iniimbestigahan at naaaksyunan nang naaayon sa batas,” Nartatez said.
He assured the public that the PNP would conduct a fair and thorough investigation while respecting the legal rights of everyone involved.
“Nakikiramay tayo sa pamilya ng biktima. Mananatili tayong nakatutok hanggang sa tuluyang umusad ang kasong ito sa tamang proseso ng batas. We will continue to work closely with our partners to ensure accountability and maintain public safety,” he added.
The PNP said the case’s prompt resolution reflects its efforts to strengthen crime investigation and operational effectiveness under its Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar.
The police force continues to coordinate with the appropriate authorities as the case proceeds through the legal process.