A brazen attempt to steal a cow valued at approximately P50,000 was thwarted by vigilant neighbors and barangay officials in Argao, Cebu, leading to the arrest of the suspect after a dramatic chase.
Theft Unraveled by a Simple Question
The incident occurred on the afternoon of Saturday, January 10, 2026, in Barangay Guiwanon, Argao City. The suspect, identified as 32-year-old alias Winwin, a single resident of Barangay Poblacion in the neighboring Sibonga town, was caught in the act of leading the cow away. The scheme fell apart when a neighbor of the cow's owner, 46-year-old Mark Anthony Goc-ong, approached him and asked if he had finally sold his animal.
"Gibaligya diay ninyo ang inyong baka?" (So you sold your cow?) the neighbor inquired. Goc-ong was shocked by the question, as he had no intention of selling his prized livestock. This immediate alert raised the alarm that a theft was in progress.
Community Chase Leads to Apprehension
Police Staff Sergeant Robinson Cornito, the investigating officer from the Argao Police Station, revealed that the suspect had already managed to lead the cow about one kilometer away from the owner's property. Upon realizing the crime, Goc-ong, together with his neighbors, pursued the rustler.
"Gigukod nila uban sa mga silingan layo na raba kaayo. Na-abtan nila ang suspek nag-inilogay sila sa pisi aron makuha ang baka," PSSgt. Cornito stated, describing the struggle over the rope used to lead the animal. The combined efforts of the residents and responding barangay tanod (watchmen) proved successful. The suspect was subdued and initially taken to the Guiwanon Barangay Hall before being formally turned over to the police.
Facing Justice for Cattle Rustling
The swift action of the community culminated in the arrest of alias Winwin at around 3:00 PM that same day. He is now detained at the Argao Police Station and is set to face formal charges for theft. This case highlights the effectiveness of community vigilance and prompt coordination with local authorities in combating agricultural crime, which can represent a significant financial loss for livestock owners in rural areas.
The recovered cow, estimated to be worth P50,000, was safely returned to its rightful owner, Mark Anthony Goc-ong, preventing a substantial economic setback.
