Marasigan Commends Local Police for Arrest of Batangas’ 7th Most Wanted Person
CITY OF STO. TOMAS, Batangas — Mayor Arth Jhun Aguilar Marasigan praised the swift and coordinated efforts of local law enforcement following the arrest of the province’s 7th most wanted individual, an alleged child sexual predator long sought by authorities.
In a joint manhunt operation, personnel of the Sto. Tomas City Police and the First Battalion Provincial Mobile Force Company (1st BPMFC) apprehended the suspect known as “Sir Red,” a 67-year-old widower from Pandacan, Manila. The arrest was carried out by virtue of a warrant issued by City Prosecutor Jonathan M. Aldovino for multiple charges related to child sexual abuse.
According to police reports, the suspect—a self-described search-and-rescue instructor and dog trainer—allegedly molested a minor mentee on several occasions inside a property he co-owned in Barangay San Vicente. Authorities said the suspect exploited training exercises, instructing mentees to hide as part of their drills, during which he allegedly committed the assaults.
“Sir Red” is facing three counts of Lascivious Conduct under Section 5(b) of Republic Act No. 7610 (Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation, and Discrimination Act) as well as a rape through sexual assault charge under Article 266-A, paragraph 2 of the Revised Penal Code, also in relation to RA 7610.
Mayor Marasigan commended the police for their prompt action, stressing that the arrest prevents the possibility of additional victims. “The city government will never tolerate any criminal act, especially those committed against women and children,” he said. “We are committed to ensuring that law and order prevail at all times.”
A lawyer by profession, the mayor also urged residents to report any form of abuse—whether experienced firsthand or witnessed—so that perpetrators may be held accountable.
PLTCOL Marlon C. Cabataῆa, Acting Chief of Police, affirmed that the Philippine National Police will continue to intensify its anti-criminality campaign. “Public safety is our priority, and no one should be put at risk under our watch,” he said.|
