PNP Aurora Provincial Forensic Unit

28/07/2026

PNP INTENSIFIES CYBERCRIME DRIVE, SECURES 180 CONVICTIONS IN FIRST HALF OF 2026

The Philippine National Police (PNP) continues to intensify its campaign against cybercrime as the Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG) secured 180 convictions for various cybercrime-related offenses from January 1 to June 30, 2026, underscoring the organization's relentless efforts to ensure that cyber offenders are brought to justice.

The convictions stemmed from sustained cyber patrol operations, digital forensic investigations, and comprehensive case build-up that led to successful prosecution before the courts. Among the cases that resulted in convictions were 94 violations of the Anti-Illegal Gambling Act, as amended, committed through online platforms, 49 violations of the Anti-Financial Account Scamming Act, and several other cyber-enabled offenses investigated by the PNP ACG.

A significant contribution to this accomplishment came from the successful prosecution of 94 individuals arrested during a major anti-illegal online gambling operation in Tarlac in June 2025. The operation dismantled an unauthorized online raffle scheme that operated without the necessary government permits, with the cases ultimately resulting in convictions after thorough investigation and judicial proceedings.

The PNP's sustained gains against cybercrime also come on the heels of the successful hosting of the 44th ASEANAPOL Conference, where police leaders from across Southeast Asia reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation against transnational crimes, particularly those committed in the digital space. The stronger partnerships forged through the conference are expected to further enhance intelligence sharing, operational coordination, and capacity-building among law enforcement agencies, enabling the Philippines to respond more effectively to cyber threats that increasingly cross national borders.

The accomplishment reflects the PNP's Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which strengthens intelligence-driven policing and quality investigations, while supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to enhance public safety by ensuring that cyber offenders are brought to justice.

PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the convictions send a strong message that the PNP remains steadfast in protecting Filipinos from cyber-enabled crimes.

"Habang patuloy na umuunlad ang teknolohiya, lalo rin nating pinalalakas ang ating kakayahan laban sa cybercrime. Hindi tayo titigil sa paghahabol sa mga gumagamit ng digital platforms para manloko o gumawa ng ilegal na gawain. Ang layunin natin ay hindi lamang makapag-operasyon kundi makabuo ng matitibay na kaso upang mapanagot sila sa ilalim ng batas," PGen Nartatez said.

He added that the strengthened regional cooperation established during the ASEANAPOL Conference will further improve the country's capability to address cyber threats.

"Malaking bagay ang mas matibay na ugnayan ng ating mga kapulisan sa mga karatig-bansa dahil ang cybercrime ay hindi na nakatali sa hangganan ng isang bansa. Sa mas mabilis na palitan ng impormasyon at mas malapit na koordinasyon, mas magiging epektibo ang ating kampanya laban sa mga cybercriminal," he added.

The PNP remains committed to strengthening its cybercrime response through proactive operations, enhanced investigative capabilities, and closer collaboration with local and international law enforcement partners. Guided by the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, the organization will continue to ensure that the country's digital space remains safer and more secure for every Filipino.

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

PNP ARRESTS 4, SEIZES ₱9.5-M WORTH OF EQUIPMENT IN ANTI-ILLEGAL MINING OPERATION IN SURIGAO

The Philippine National Police (PNP), through the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), arrested four individuals during an anti-illegal mining operation in Surigao City that also led to the seizure of heavy equipment and other materials believed to have been used in unauthorized mining activities.

The operation was conducted on July 23 in coordination with the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region XIII and the Surigao City Police Station. Authorities recovered two backhoes, several sacks of gold ore, and various mining equipment with an estimated total value of ₱9.5 million.

Initial investigation showed that the four male suspects, all of legal age, were allegedly conducting mining and ore-processing activities without the required permits and authorities from the MGB, in violation of Republic Act No. 7942, or the Philippine Mining Act of 1995. Appropriate charges are being prepared in accordance with existing laws.

The operation forms part of the PNP's continuing efforts to strengthen law enforcement against environmental crimes under its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations. It also supports the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to protect the country's natural resources while ensuring that laws governing their responsible use are consistently enforced.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., emphasized that environmental protection is a shared responsibility and that the PNP will continue working closely with partner agencies to stop activities that threaten communities and natural resources.

“Ang pangangalaga sa ating kalikasan ay mahalagang bahagi ng ating tungkulin bilang tagapagpatupad ng batas. Sa pamamagitan ng maayos at patas na pagpapatupad ng batas, napoprotektahan natin hindi lamang ang ating likas na yaman kundi pati ang kinabukasan ng susunod na henerasyon. Patuloy nating pananagutin ang mga lalabag sa batas habang tinitiyak na ang bawat operasyon ay isinasagawa nang naaayon sa proseso at may paggalang sa karapatan ng lahat," PGen Nartatez said.

He also encouraged the public to remain vigilant and report suspected environmental law violations in their communities, stressing that timely information from citizens greatly helps authorities prevent further damage to the environment.

The PNP reaffirms its commitment to protecting the nation's natural resources through sustained coordination with concerned government agencies and active community participation, in line with the vision of Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

PNP RECORDS NEW CTG SURRENDERS IN THREE PROVINCES

The Philippine National Police, under the leadership of PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., recorded the voluntary surrender of three former Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) members in Bukidnon, Northern Samar, and Samar, underscoring sustained efforts to encourage members of armed groups to abandon violence and return to the fold of the law through the government’s reintegration initiatives.

On July 25, 2026, a 34-year-old Filipino male identified only by the alias “Roden,” a former member of the dismantled Sub-Regional Sentro de Grabidad Peddler (SRSDG Peddler) under Sub-Regional Committee 2 of the North Central Mindanao Regional Committee, voluntarily surrendered to personnel of the 2nd Bukidnon Provincial Mobile Force Company and other PNP operating units at the unit’s headquarters in Don Carlos, Bukidnon. During his surrender, he turned over one homemade caliber .45 pistol with a steel magazine and am******on. He said he was encouraged to surrender after seeing former CTG members successfully reintegrate into society through government programs and chose to pursue a peaceful and productive life.

Also on July 25, 2026, a 53-year-old Filipino male voluntarily surrendered at the headquarters of the 2nd Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company in Catubig, Northern Samar, through a joint operation with the 78th Infantry Battalion, Philippine Army. He surrendered without a fi***rm and is now undergoing documentation and tactical interviews before possible enrollment in the Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP) or the Local Social Integration Program (LSIP).

Earlier, on July 22, 2026, a 35-year-old Filipino female identified only by the alias “Ana,” a former member of the SRC SESAME under the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee, voluntarily surrendered in Barangay Cawayan, Paranas, Samar after sustained negotiations by personnel of the 2nd Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company. She is now under protective custody while undergoing documentation and assessment for possible enrollment in the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program.

PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the latest surrenders demonstrate that lasting peace is achieved by providing former rebels with genuine opportunities to rebuild their lives. “Every successful surrender affirms that our peace efforts are creating pathways for individuals to reject violence and become productive members of society. Ang tunay na tagumpay ay kapag mas marami ang pumipili ng mapayapang buhay kaysa sa armadong tunggalian.”

These accomplishments reflect the PNP Focused Agenda, a strategic framework for organizational transformation that advances responsive and people-centered policing. Central to this effort is the key priority of Active Community Support, which strengthens public trust and encourages communities to work hand in hand with law enforcement in sustaining peace and preventing the resurgence of insurgency.

PGEN Nartatez also emphasized that the PNP remains committed to supporting former CTG members who sincerely choose the path of peace. “The Philippine National Police will continue working with partner agencies to ensure that those who renounce armed struggle are given the opportunity to reintegrate safely and contribute to nation-building. Bukas ang aming pintuan sa mga nais magbagong-buhay at makiisa sa pagbuo ng ligtas at mapayapang komunidad.”

As the PNP strengthens its efforts to encourage more members of armed groups to embrace peace and lawful citizenship under the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., it assures the public of “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman.”

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

28/07/2026

PNP RECOVERS OVER ₱10.6-M WORTH OF SMUGGLED CI******ES IN PALAWAN OPERATION

The Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered more than ₱10.6 million worth of smuggled ci******es during an anti-smuggling operation conducted on July 26, 2026 in the municipal waters of Balabac, Palawan, reinforcing the government's intensified campaign against illegal trade.

Law enforcement personnel from the Philippine National Police, in coordination with partner maritime units, intercepted a motorized banca carrying 165 master cases of smuggled ci******es with an estimated market value of ₱10,636,800.00.

The operation resulted in the arrest of five Filipino suspects, while the seized cargo, watercraft, and the arrested individuals were placed under police custody for the filing of appropriate charges.

The operation underscores the PNP's sustained campaign against smuggling and other economic offenses that undermine legitimate businesses and government revenue. It also reflects the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which promotes intelligence-driven, coordinated, and effective law enforcement, while supporting the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the fight against illegal trade and safeguard the country's economy.

Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief, PNP, lauded the operating units for their coordinated efforts and reaffirmed the organization's commitment to pursuing those involved in illicit trade.

"Ang smuggling ay hindi lamang paglabag sa batas. May epekto ito sa ating ekonomiya at sa mga negosyong sumusunod sa tamang proseso. Kaya patuloy nating paiigtingin ang ating operasyon laban sa mga ilegal na gawain habang tinitiyak na ang lahat ng aksyon ay naaayon sa batas at may paggalang sa karapatan ng bawat isa," PGen Nartatez said.

The PNP remains steadfast in sustaining intensified anti-smuggling operations in coordination with partner agencies as part of its commitment to Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, ensuring that law enforcement efforts continue to safeguard the country's economic security and public interest.

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

PNP BACKS PBBM’s CALL FOR STRONGER SCHOOL SAFETY, SUPPORTS RETIREE WELFARE

The Philippine National Police (PNP) expressed its full support for the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. during his Fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA), particularly the call for closer coordination among local government units, barangays, the PNP, and the Department of Education (DepEd) to further strengthen the safety and security of schools across the country.

The PNP likewise welcomed the President's recognition of retired uniformed personnel through the increase in their pension and subsistence allowance, describing it as a meaningful acknowledgment of their years of dedicated service to the nation.

Chief PNP, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., said the President's message reinforces the shared responsibility of government institutions in creating a secure environment where learners can study without fear and communities can actively participate in keeping schools safe.

"Ang kaligtasan ng ating mga mag-aaral ay hindi lamang tungkulin ng kapulisan. Ito ay responsibilidad nating lahat. Patuloy kaming makikipagtulungan sa ating mga local government units, barangay officials, school administrators, mga g**o, at mga magulang upang matiyak na ligtas ang ating mga paaralan at maagap ang pagtugon sa anumang concern na maaaring makaapekto sa ating mga kabataan," said PGen Nartatez.

The Chief PNP noted that police units nationwide will continue working closely with partner agencies and local stakeholders to strengthen preventive measures, enhance police visibility in school communities, and support initiatives that promote a safe and orderly learning environment.

These continuing efforts are consistent with the PNP Focused Agenda, particularly the Enhanced Managing Police Operations pillar, which emphasizes proactive, community-centered, and well-coordinated policing to address public safety concerns while fostering stronger partnerships with government agencies and local communities.

PGen Nartatez also welcomed the President's announcement on the increase in the pension and subsistence allowance of retired uniformed personnel, describing it as a meaningful recognition of their years of dedicated service and sacrifice in safeguarding the nation.

"Malaking bagay po ito para sa ating mga retiradong uniformed personnel. Ito ay pagkilala sa kanilang mahabang panahon ng paglilingkod at sakripisyo para sa bayan. Sa ngalan ng buong Philippine National Police, nagpapasalamat tayo sa Pangulo sa patuloy na pagpapahalaga sa kapakanan ng ating mga naging kasamahan sa serbisyo," he said.

He emphasized that caring for both active and retired personnel reflects the government's commitment to those who have dedicated their lives to public service, while reinforcing the morale of the organization.

"Buo ang suporta ng Philippine National Police sa mga hakbang ng pamahalaan na naglalayong palakasin ang seguridad sa ating mga paaralan at tiyakin ang kapakanan ng mga nagsilbi na sa ating bansa. Patuloy kaming makikipagtulungan sa lahat ng ating mga katuwang upang maisakatuparan ang mga layuning ito para sa kapakanan ng bawat Pilipino," he added.

As the PNP continues to work with national agencies, local governments, schools, and communities in advancing public safety, it remains steadfast in delivering responsive and people-centered police service, guided by the vision of "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman."

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

PNP REPORTS GENERALLY PEACEFUL 5TH SONA SECURITY COVERAGE

The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that security operations for the Fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA) of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. were successfully carried out, with the overall peace and order situation remaining generally peaceful and under control.

From the implementation of security measures to the conclusion of the President's address, the PNP ensured the safety of the Chief Executive, government officials, delegates, and the public, while respecting the constitutional rights of individuals and groups to peacefully assemble and express their views.

The PNP monitored two major public assemblies held along Commonwealth Avenue and in front of the Sandiganbayan and Commission on Audit in Quezon City, with an estimated combined crowd of around 6,000 participants. While both activities were generally peaceful, isolated incidents were recorded in some areas.

Police arrested 39 individuals for alleged violations of the Quezon City Anti-Vandalism Ordinance, Malicious Mischief, Presidential Decree No. 1829, and provisions of the Revised Penal Code related to resistance or disobedience to persons in authority and disturbances of public order. The situations were promptly addressed by personnel on the ground, preventing any significant disruption to the overall security environment.

PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the discipline and professionalism of police personnel deployed for the event, as well as the cooperation shown by the public.

"Nagpapasalamat tayo sa ating mga kababayan na nakiisa sa pagpapanatili ng kaayusan habang iginagalang ang karapatan ng bawat isa na ipahayag ang kanilang saloobin nang mapayapa. Bagama't may ilang insidenteng nauwi sa pag-aresto dahil sa mga naitalang paglabag sa umiiral na mga ordinansa at batas, agad itong naaksyunan ng ating mga pulis sa mahinahon at propesyonal na paraan."

"Sa ating mga kapulisan, ipinakita ninyo ang disiplina at dedikasyon sa pagtupad ng inyong tungkulin. Patuloy nating paninindigan ang patas na pagpapatupad ng batas nang may paggalang sa karapatang pantao at sa dignidad ng bawat tao,” he added.

The successful security coverage reflects the PNP's continued commitment to proactive and coordinated police operations, consistent with its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which emphasizes effective law enforcement while safeguarding public safety and democratic freedoms.

As the nation moves forward following the Fifth SONA of President Marcos, the PNP remains steadfast in its mission to maintain peace and order through responsive policing, meaningful community engagement, and service anchored on the principle of "Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman."

(PNP-PIO)

28/07/2026

July 28, 2026
Gospel: Matthew 13:36–43
Reflection: “Until the Harvest”

28/07/2026