High-Profile Arrest Ties Up a Long Pursuit
The No. 1 most wanted person in Negros Island Region (NIR) was arrested in Talisay City, Negros Occidental, on charges that have shocked local communities. A 39-year-old motorcycle mechanic, once considered the region’s most elusive fugitive, now faces six counts of statutory rape and three counts of lascivious conduct under the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act (RA 7610). Police say bail is not recommended for the six counts, with bail set at P180,000 for each of the lascivious conduct counts. The arrest marks a significant milestone for law enforcement agencies in the region who say no suspect is beyond reach.
What Happened and Where
According to authorities, the alleged abuse began on December 10, 2023, and incidents reportedly continued through April 12, 2025. The victim is identified as a minor, and the alleged abuse was first disclosed to authorities by the girl’s mother. The neighborly connection between the suspect and the victim adds a troubling layer to the case, underscoring how abuse can occur in familiar settings where trust exists between families and neighbors.
Charges, Process, and Legal Proceedings
Authorities filed the case with the City Prosecutor’s Office on June 21, 2025. The suspect faces:
- Six counts of statutory rape
- Three counts of lascivious conduct under RA 7610
The legal framework underscores the Philippines’ commitment to protecting children from sexual abuse, with heavy penalties and stringent bail rules designed to prevent the release of suspects who might pose further risk to minors.
Arrest Context and Police Strategy
The arrest occurred while the suspect was in police custody for a separate sexual abuse charge, allowing authorities to serve additional warrants without a protracted manhunt. Police Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas Ibay, director of PRO-NIR, publicly commended the operation, emphasizing the department’s resolve to pursue fugitives regardless of how long they hide. “No matter how long they hide, they will eventually face the consequences of their actions,” Ibay stated. The capture demonstrates the effectiveness of cross-department coordination, swift investigative work, and persistent pursuit of justice for victims.
Impact on the Community and the Victim’s Family
Cases involving young victims reverberate through communities, particularly in smaller cities where neighbors often share a close-knit routine. The authorities have expressed sensitivity to the victim’s privacy and safety, while underscoring the ongoing commitment to protecting children. Local residents may be reassured by the arrest, but community leaders also stress the need for ongoing preventive measures, including education, reporting mechanisms, and child protection programs to prevent future abuses.
What Comes Next
With formal charges filed, the court process will determine the outcome of the six counts of statutory rape and the three counts of lascivious conduct. The case highlights the role of prosecutors, judges, and law enforcement in pursuing accountability for crimes against minors. As the legal proceedings unfold, advocates for child protection will continue to call for vigilant reporting, survivor support, and community awareness to deter similar offenses in Negros Island and beyond.
Conclusion
The arrest of Negros Island Region’s top fugitive sends a clear message: authorities will relentlessly pursue those who prey on children. The case, still under the scrutiny of prosecutors and the community, serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities many children face and the collective responsibility to safeguard them. As the legal process proceeds, the hope is that truth, justice, and enhanced protections for young victims prevail.
