Three suspects have been arrested by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in connection with the attempted murder of a 29-year-old businessman who was shot shortly after attending his college graduation in Pantukan, Davao de Oro.
Arrests and Suspects
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. identified the suspects as a 35-year-old man, whom the victim identified as the gunman; a 34-year-old dismissed policeman; and a 25-year-old woman. They were arrested during follow-up operations conducted by the Pantukan Municipal Police Station. A manhunt is ongoing for another suspect.
Nartatez commended the operating team for the swift resolution of the case. “We committed to solve this crime, and we honor that commitment by the immediate arrest of those involved. I commend all our personnel involved in this operation for a job well done,” Nartatez said.
Incident Details
The victim had just attended his graduation ceremony after earning a degree in Technology and Livelihood Education (TLE) from Kolehiyo ng Pantukan. On June 25, 2026, while traveling along the national highway in Barangay Kingking, he was repeatedly shot. He sustained gunshot wounds but survived the attack. Initial investigation indicated the shooting was motivated by personal grudge.
Investigation and Evidence
Authorities launched a hot pursuit operation using information from the victim and witnesses, along with digital forensic analysis. The three suspects were found inside a gray Suzuki minivan, identified as the suspected getaway vehicle. Recovered during the operation were a .45-caliber pistol and the Suzuki minivan bearing plate number MBN 2178.
Nartatez said the arrests demonstrate the effectiveness of police investigative and operational procedures under the PNP's Enhanced Managing of Police Operations (Empo), a data-driven operational framework aimed at improving police response and visibility in communities. The three suspects remain in police custody as investigators prepare evidence for the filing of appropriate charges. Police are also investigating whether the suspects were involved in an earlier shooting incident involving a relative of the victim.
