ZAMBOANGA CITY – January 10, 2026 — A tense hostage situation unfolded along Mango Drive in Barangay Baliwasan on Friday afternoon after a soldier allegedly held his own wife at gunpoint inside a boarding house, prompting an hours-long police negotiation before the suspect finally surrendered.
Police identified the negotiator as PCapt. Ariel Cabanlong, chief of Police Station 11, who led the dialogue alongside a member of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to de-escalate the situation and ensure the safety of the victim.
Authorities said the suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, reportedly barricaded himself with his wife inside the boarding house, triggering alarm among nearby residents and tenants. The area was secured as police negotiators worked to convince the suspect to lay down his weapon.
At around 5:00 p.m., the suspect surrendered peacefully to the police and turned over his firearm. The victim was immediately secured and is now out of danger, police confirmed.
Initial investigation points to jealousy and a domestic dispute as the motive behind the hostage-taking. No injuries were reported.
The suspect was taken to Police Station 11 for documentation and further investigation. Charges related to illegal detention, grave threats, and violations of laws on firearms may be filed, pending inquest proceedings.
Police reminded the public to seek help through proper channels when dealing with domestic conflicts and reiterated that violence is never an acceptable solution.