A senior citizen's attempt to secure a clean police record for employment took a dramatic turn when it led to his immediate arrest at a Cebu City police station.
Routine Application Uncovers Old Warrant
The incident occurred at the Mabolo Police Station 4 (PS4) of the Cebu City Police Office on the evening of Monday, January 5, 2026. The individual, identified only by the alias Amado, 64, from Villabulsita, Barangay Bulacao, Cebu City, was applying for a National Police Clearance. This document was a requirement for his planned application for a job as a driver.
System Check Reveals Long-Pending Case
However, when police personnel processed his application and ran his name through their system, a red flag appeared. The database indicated an active warrant of arrest against him for a swindling or estafa case. The warrant was issued by Judge Yvonne Cabaron Artiaga, the presiding judge of the Municipal Trial Court in Cities (MTCC) Branch 3 in Cebu City, and was dated July 28, 2011.
The court had set a recommended bail of P18,000 for his temporary liberty. According to the report, Amado had initially believed the case was no longer active due to the significant passage of time—nearly 15 years since the charge was filed.
Arrest and Release on Bail
The police officers processing his clearance had no choice but to enforce the law. Amado was immediately arrested right at the station. He did not remain in custody for long, as he was able to post the required bail. He was subsequently released the following day, Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
This case highlights the importance of the National Police Clearance system in flagging individuals with pending legal issues, regardless of how much time has elapsed. It also serves as a reminder that warrants do not expire and remain enforceable until resolved by the court.
