Mati City, Davao Oriental – A high-profile operation conducted by the Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office (DOPPO) led to the successful implementation of an arrest warrant against Rey Juan Madanlo, alias “Abay,” a notorious leader of the Repolyo Criminal Gang, also known as the Madanlo Criminal Group. The operation, carried out on March 27, 2025, at 1:47 AM in Campo 1 District, Barangay Sainz, Mati City, resulted in an armed confrontation that led to the suspect’s death.
Madanlo, listed as a national most wanted person, had multiple outstanding warrants for serious crimes, including murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder. His apprehension was the result of extensive intelligence gathering and a coordinated effort among DOPPO, the 2nd Davao Oriental Provincial Mobile Force Company (DOPMFC), Mati City Police Station, the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA), Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU), Tactical Intelligence Unit (TIU), Provincial Intelligence Team Davao Oriental (PITDOR), Davao Oriental Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), and the Regional Intelligence Division (RID).
During the lawful execution of the arrest warrant, Madanlo allegedly resisted arrest, drawing his .45 caliber pistol and opening fire on the police operatives. A brief exchange of gunfire ensued, during which the suspect sustained gunshot wounds. Despite being rushed to the Davao Oriental Provincial Medical Center, he was declared dead after a few hours of medical intervention.
Authorities recovered several items from the crime scene, including a .45 caliber Colt Government Model pistol, steel magazines, live ammunition, a black Bajaj motorcycle, and spent shells.
Madanlo faced multiple warrants of arrest for murder and other violent crimes, issued by various Regional Trial Court (RTC) branches across Davao Oriental and Davao City. His criminal activities posed a significant threat to peace and order in the province.
DOPPO Provincial Director PCOL Julius E. Silagan commended the efforts of the police personnel involved in the operation. “The PNP remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring public safety by apprehending and neutralizing high-value criminal targets. This operation sends a clear message that law enforcement is in control, and criminals will be held accountable for their actions,” Silagan stated.
The Davao Oriental Police Provincial Office continues to urge the public to support the PNP’s initiatives in combating crime and to report any suspicious or illegal activities to their nearest police station.