REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
3 Suspects Arrested In Fatal Robbery-Slay Of American In Negros Oriental
PHOTO CREDIT: PNP
Police have arrested all three identified suspects in the fatal robbery-slay of a 73-year-old American marine biologist in Sibulan, Negros Oriental, just three days after the crime, marking a major breakthrough in the investigation.
The victim, who had been residing in Barangay Ajong, Sibulan, was killed inside his home during a robbery on July 12. His live-in partner survived the attack after being restrained by the suspects.
Initial police investigation showed that the perpetrators carted away cash, travel documents, identification cards, a laptop, and other personal belongings before fleeing the scene.
Authorities immediately launched an intensive investigation that led to the identification of the suspects and a series of 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. Later that night, another suspect using the alias "J.F." was also taken into custody in the same municipality.
At around 4:06 a.m. on July 16, the third suspect, a 21-year-old identified by the alias "C.D.," who allegedly served as the lookout during the robbery, voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the swift arrests were the result of coordinated police operations and an intensive investigation conducted by local and provincial police units.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for solving the case within three days, saying the successful operation demonstrated the importance of close coordination and thorough police work in delivering justice quickly. He also assured the public that the investigation would continue in accordance with the law while respecting the legal rights of everyone involved.
The PNP extended its condolences to the victim's family and said it remains committed to ensuring accountability as the case moves through the proper legal process.
The three suspects are now under police custody and are expected to face charges of robbery with homicide.
Police said the case highlights the PNP's continuing efforts to strengthen crime investigation and law enforcement under its peace and order campaign while ensuring that serious crimes are acted upon swiftly and thoroughly.
The victim, who had been residing in Barangay Ajong, Sibulan, was killed inside his home during a robbery on July 12. His live-in partner survived the attack after being restrained by the suspects.
Initial police investigation showed that the perpetrators carted away cash, travel documents, identification cards, a laptop, and other personal belongings before fleeing the scene.
Authorities immediately launched an intensive investigation that led to the identification of the suspects and a series of 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. Later that night, another suspect using the alias "J.F." was also taken into custody in the same municipality.
At around 4:06 a.m. on July 16, the third suspect, a 21-year-old identified by the alias "C.D.," who allegedly served as the lookout during the robbery, voluntarily surrendered to authorities.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said the swift arrests were the result of coordinated police operations and an intensive investigation conducted by local and provincial police units.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for solving the case within three days, saying the successful operation demonstrated the importance of close coordination and thorough police work in delivering justice quickly. He also assured the public that the investigation would continue in accordance with the law while respecting the legal rights of everyone involved.
The PNP extended its condolences to the victim's family and said it remains committed to ensuring accountability as the case moves through the proper legal process.
The three suspects are now under police custody and are expected to face charges of robbery with homicide.
Police said the case highlights the PNP's continuing efforts to strengthen crime investigation and law enforcement under its peace and order campaign while ensuring that serious crimes are acted upon swiftly and thoroughly.
Jul 16, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
