Police arrested the No. 1 most wanted person in the Negros Island Region on November 11, 2026, over five counts of qualified rape involving his minor stepdaughter.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the suspect as a 33-year-old man who was apprehended by personnel of the Victorias Component City Police Station under the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOcPPO).
According to police, the suspect allegedly sexually abused his stepdaughter after inviting her to his residence under the pretext of allowing her to use the internet to communicate with her mother, who was working abroad.
Authorities served a warrant of arrest against the suspect for five counts of qualified rape of a minor.
The accused remains in the custody of the Victorias City Police Station pending proper legal disposition.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reiterated the police force’s commitment to pursuing individuals facing serious criminal charges, particularly those involving the sexual abuse of children.
“We will pursue every individual with an outstanding warrant, regardless of how long they evade arrest. No case should be left unattended, especially when the safety and welfare of a child are at stake,” Nartatez said.
He also emphasized the importance of protecting the victim’s rights throughout the legal proceedings.
“Dapat mapangalagaan ang karapatan ng biktima at matiyak na maihaharap sa korte ang akusado upang managot sa mga kasong isinampa laban sa kanya,” he added.
The PNP said the arrest was part of its Focused Agenda, particularly its Enhanced Managing Police Operations initiative, which aims to strengthen efforts to locate and apprehend wanted individuals nationwide.
The operation also forms part of the police force’s continuing campaign against crimes involving vulnerable individuals, particularly women and children.
Authorities have not disclosed further details about the suspect or the victim to protect the minor’s identity.
