Philippine National Police said a joint police operation against a wanted person in Tarlac resulted in a shootout that left the top most wanted suspect of Police Station 5 of the Angeles City Police Office dead.
The operation was conducted on May 13 in Barangay Salcedo, San Manuel, Tarlac by personnel of Police Station 5 in coordination with the City Intelligence Unit as part of the intensified campaign against wanted persons involved in violent crimes.
Authorities said the suspect, a resident of Angeles City, Pampanga, was facing warrants of arrest for homicide and slight physical injury issued by a regional trial court in Angeles City.
Police also identified him as the primary suspect in an earlier shooting incident involving an intelligence operative of the Angeles City Police Office.
According to police reports, the suspect allegedly sensed the presence of law enforcement personnel during the service of the warrants and attempted to flee by running toward an area beneath a bridge.
Authorities said the suspect later allegedly opened fire at the operating team, prompting police to retaliate.
The suspect sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was declared dead by the attending physician.
The incident is now undergoing standard police investigation and documentation procedures.
Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units and emphasized that police personnel are trained to observe the law while responding to threats during operations.
“Palagi naming ipinaaalala sa aming mga tauhan na sundin at igalang ang batas sa bawat operasyon,” Nartatez said.
“Ngunit kung mapipilitan, they are also trained to respond decisively to protect lives, including their own,” he added.
The PNP said all police operations remain guided by legality, accountability, and respect for human rights.