Bacolod Police Apprehend Three Suspects in Deadly Shooting Case
Authorities in Bacolod City have successfully arrested three suspects involved in a shooting incident that occurred on March 13, 2026. The arrest took place in Purok Bagong-Hilway at the corner of Rizal and Hilado Streets, located in Barangay 22 of Bacolod City.
Suspects Identified and Details of the Incident
Police have identified the suspects as alias Jer, aged 23 and a resident of Sitio Bantulinao in Barangay Tanauan, Kabankalan City; alias Jon, a mechanic helper also residing in Sitio Bantulinao, Barangay Tanauan, Kabankalan City; and alias Junjun, 34, a resident of Purok Mahiliugyon in Barangay 23, Bacolod City. The suspects were apprehended after allegedly killing Ruben Altamira, who lived in Purok Gahili-ugyon, Barangay 23, Bacolod.
Police Operation and Arrest
Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, the chief of the Public Information Office for the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), provided details on the operation. Personnel from Police Station 1 of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) conducted a hot pursuit operation around 11:30 p.m. at a boarding house in Purok Avocado, Barangay 20, Bacolod City. This operation led to the arrest of the suspects.
Investigation revealed that the victim, Ruben Altamira, served as the caretaker of the compound where the suspects were staying. Malong explained that there had been a history of heated arguments between the victim and the suspects. The victim had repeatedly advised them to vacate the compound and transfer to another boarding house. This matter had previously been brought before the barangay for mediation in an attempt to resolve the dispute.
Follow-Up Investigation and Confrontation
During the follow-up investigation, a concerned citizen informed Police Station 1 that the suspects were inside the compound. Acting on this information, intelligence operatives conducted monitoring and surveillance in the area. They observed a man behind the door carrying a firearm in a ready position. The operatives then called out to the individual and identified themselves as police officers.
However, another suspect, identified as alias Junjun, shouted: "Sige sulod kay pangtumbahon." This prompted the operatives to immediately enter the premises and enforce the arrest of the suspects. Police recovered several firearms and ammunition from the suspects during the operation.
Commendation and Commitment from Authorities
PRO-NIR Director Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay commended the swift response and coordinated efforts of the Bacolod City Police Office. He emphasized that prompt and decisive police action plays a vital role in preventing further violence and ensuring that those responsible for criminal acts are immediately apprehended and held accountable under the law.
PRO-NIR further reiterated its unwavering commitment to intensify law enforcement operations against individuals involved in violent crimes and the illegal possession of firearms. The command assured the public that it will continue to pursue offenders with determination and diligence, ensuring that those who threaten peace and order in the community are brought before the proper authorities to answer for their actions.
