Three individuals facing murder charges were arrested during a Philippine National Police (PNP)-led law enforcement operation backed by the Philippine Army in Barangay Patian, Pata, Sulu, on November 5, 2026.
The arrests were carried out through a Law Enforcement Support Operation (LESO) involving personnel of the Pata Municipal Police Station, supported by troops from the 104th Infantry “Para sa Bayan” Battalion under the 1102th Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade of the Philippine Army.
Lt. Col. Joelito Guanzon, commanding officer of the 104th Infantry Battalion, confirmed that the operation was led by the Pata Municipal Police Station under the supervision of Police Capt. Victor D. Villasor, with Army personnel providing operational support.
All three arrested individuals are residents of Barangay Patian, Pata, Sulu. Authorities apprehended them by virtue of a warrant of arrest for murder under Criminal Case No. 298-25, issued by Judge Alsad H. Alfad Jr., acting presiding judge of the Regional Trial Court Branch 25 in Siasi, Sulu.
The warrant reportedly carries no recommended bail, underscoring the seriousness of the criminal charges they are facing. However, the allegations remain subject to judicial proceedings, and the accused are entitled to the constitutional presumption of innocence.
Following their arrest, the three individuals were informed of their constitutional rights in a dialect they fully understood before being turned over to the Pata Municipal Police Station for appropriate legal proceedings.
Army-PNP Cooperation in Sustaining Peace
Brig. Gen. Alaric Avelino P. Delos Santos, commander of the 1102nd Infantry “Ganarul” Brigade, emphasized that sustained cooperation between the military and police is essential to maintaining security and preventing the resurgence of violence in Sulu.
He described Law Enforcement Support Operations as an important component of ongoing peace and security efforts, particularly in ensuring that individuals facing criminal charges are brought before the appropriate judicial authorities.
“Law Enforcement Support Operations are an essential part of our continuing efforts to sustain peace in Sulu. By supporting the PNP in enforcing the law and bringing individuals facing criminal charges before the proper authorities, we strengthen the rule of law, help prevent the recurrence of violence, and reinforce public confidence in government institutions,” Delos Santos said.
The brigade commander also stressed that military assistance to law enforcement agencies is guided by the principles of the rule of law and political will, recognizing that lasting peace cannot be achieved through security operations alone but also requires the consistent and impartial administration of justice.
The latest operation highlights the continuing security partnership between the Philippine Army and the PNP in Sulu, where law enforcement coordination remains important in addressing criminal activities and protecting communities.
While the arrests represent another law enforcement action in the province, authorities’ broader challenge remains ensuring that criminal cases proceed through the justice system and that accountability is pursued through lawful and due processes.
The 1102nd Infantry Brigade reiterated its commitment to supporting police operations, strengthening public safety, and preserving peace and stability in Sulu through coordinated security and law enforcement efforts.