A FARM worker facing criminal charges was arrested in a law enforcement operation in the province of Basilan, the police said Friday, July 4, 2025.
Police Brigadier General Jaysen De Guzman, Police Region Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (Pro-Bar) director, identified the arrested suspect as alias Patcho, 40, a rubber tapper.
De Guzman said Patcho was arrested around 5 p.m. Wednesday, July 2, in Barangay Balas, Lamitan City, Basilan.
De Guzman said Patcho has pending warrant of arrest with no recommended bail for three counts statutory rape dated May 2, 2025 issued by a court in Imelda, Zamboanga Sibugay.
“This accomplishment reflects our firm commitment to the rule of law and justice for abuse victims. Let this serve as a warning—the law will catch up with you,” he said.
He said Patcho was arrested by joint team of policemen from Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay, Lamitan City, and Philippine National Police-Special Action Force.
He said the suspect is now under the custody of Lamitan City Police Station and will be turned over to Alicia Municipal Police Station for proper disposition. (SunStar Zamboanga)