Authorities arrested Bicol’s No. 1 most wanted person in San Fernando, Masbate, following a coordinated intelligence operation involving police units, national support teams, and military partners.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Eli,” was arrested by virtue of a warrant for murder, with no bail recommended by the court.
Before the arrest, police said operating units conducted surveillance, intelligence validation, and monitoring to confirm the suspect’s location and ensure that the operation would be carried out safely and orderly.
Authorities identified Eli as a high-ranking member of a Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) operating in the Bicol region. He had been listed as a high-value regional most wanted person.
Police said the operation was completed without incident, and the suspect is now under the custody of authorities for proper documentation and disposition.
Philippine National Police chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for their coordination, discipline, and sustained intelligence work that led to the arrest.
“This accomplishment reflects our continued commitment to focused, intelligence-led operations. Patuloy nating tututukan ang mga wanted persons hanggang makamit ang hustisya,” Nartatez said.
The PNP said the operation forms part of its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which seeks to improve coordination, field execution, and law enforcement response across police units.
It also supports the government’s broader peace and security efforts under the Marcos administration, aimed at making communities safer and strengthening public order.
Authorities said the arrest reflects the continuing campaign of the PNP to pursue wanted persons and enforce court orders nationwide.