A shocking incident unfolded in Marilao, Bulacan on Monday when an alleged member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) robbed a local convenience store, leading to a fatal confrontation with responding officers.
The Robbery Incident
According to police reports, the suspect, described as wearing a distinctive red jacket, entered a convenience store in Barangay Sta. Rosa, Marilao, Bulacan. The individual, who was later identified as a police captain, successfully fled the scene on his motorcycle after stealing approximately ₱20,000 in cash from the establishment.
When the Marilao Police received the robbery report, they immediately responded to the store location but arrived after the suspect had already escaped. Authorities promptly initiated a hot-pursuit operation to track down the fleeing officer.
Fatal Shootout and Investigation
The pursuit reached its climax when police officers managed to flag down the suspect. Rather than surrendering, the alleged police officer opened fire on the pursuing officers, triggering an exchange of gunfire. The suspect sustained injuries during the confrontation and was rushed to a medical facility, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Police Regional Office-3 (PRO3) has launched a comprehensive investigation to determine whether the same suspect was responsible for other robbery-hold-up incidents targeting convenience stores across Bulacan and neighboring provinces. This development comes just one week after PRO3 authorities arrested two robbers responsible for targeting fast food chains in Bustos and Sta. Maria, Bulacan.
In that previous operation, police recovered significant evidence including a Toyota Avanza getaway vehicle, two sets of license plates, a caliber .38 firearm, approximately ₱10,000 in cash, and around ₱13,000 in assorted coins.
Water Service Controversy in San Fernando
In unrelated but equally pressing news, residents of San Fernando City are expressing growing frustration with Prime Water's service quality. The water utility, which took over operations through a joint venture agreement with the local government, has faced persistent complaints from consumers.
Fernandinos and Fernandinas report suffering from weak water pressure and discolored water since the Villar family-controlled company assumed management of the city's water district. Many residents recall better service quality when the City of San Fernando Government directly managed water operations, noting that water was not only stronger flowing but also safe to drink.
The community is now looking to Mayor Vilma Caluag to address their concerns, particularly after neighboring San Jose Del Monte, Bulacan under Mayor Rida Robes formally terminated its joint venture agreement with Prime Water. San Fernando residents eagerly await similar decisive action from their local leadership to resolve the ongoing water service issues.
