DAVAO CITY — A detainee tagged as one of Davao City’s top high-value individuals (HVI) in illegal drug operations has escaped from the Davao City Police Office (DCPO) Custodial Facility, triggering an intensive manhunt and an internal investigation into possible lapses in jail security.
The escape was confirmed during a special press conference on Friday, February 6, by DCPO Acting City Director Police Colonel Mannan Muarip. According to Muarip, the suspect managed to flee in the early hours of Thursday, February 5, 2026.
The escapee was identified as Alfred Ismael Magallanes Matute, 35, a resident of Deca Homes, Barangay Mintal, Davao City. He is classified as a Top 4 City-Level High-Value Individual (HVI) and is facing charges for violating Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
Escape Discovered During Inspection
Initial reports revealed that Matute’s escape was discovered at around 7:15 a.m. on February 5 during a routine on-the-spot inspection conducted by the duty officer. Authorities immediately launched search operations after confirming that a person under police custody (PCUP) was missing from the male custodial facility.
Further investigation showed that the suspect had already escaped at around 2:00 a.m., several hours before the incident was detected.
Guard Allegedly Asleep, Investigation Underway
Colonel Muarip disclosed that initial findings indicate that the jail guard on duty was allegedly asleep at the time of the escape. The DCPO has since launched a full investigation to determine administrative and possible criminal liability of the personnel assigned to the facility.
All officers and personnel assigned to the custodial facility during the incident have been temporarily relieved from their posts pending the outcome of the probe.
To reinforce security, additional augmentation forces from the City Mobile Force Company have been deployed around the DCPO compound.
Arrest History and Drug Charges
Police records show that Matute was arrested on December 21, 2025, in connection with illegal drug activities. Since then, he had been detained at the DCPO custodial facility while facing court proceedings.
His classification as a high-value individual reflects his alleged involvement in large-scale drug operations within the city.
Massive Manhunt and Public Appeal
Authorities have intensified search and manhunt operations across Davao City and nearby areas. Police stations have been placed on heightened alert, while checkpoints and coordination with neighboring law enforcement units have been activated.
Muarip called on the suspect to surrender peacefully.
“We strongly urge Alfred Matute to surrender and face the charges against him. Evading authorities will only worsen his situation,” Muarip said.
He also assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to ensure Matute’s immediate recapture.
Media Briefing and Security Review
To promote transparency, Colonel Muarip personally accompanied members of the media inside the DCPO facility to demonstrate how the escape may have occurred. The walkthrough aimed to clarify possible security weaknesses and reassure the public that corrective actions are being implemented.
The DCPO is now conducting a comprehensive review of its custodial management system, including personnel deployment, monitoring procedures, and infrastructure security, to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Public Urged to Cooperate
Police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any information that may lead to Matute’s arrest. Citizens who spot the suspect are advised not to approach him and instead immediately contact the nearest police station.
As of this writing, search and manhunt operations remain ongoing, while authorities continue to strengthen custodial security and hold accountable those responsible for the security breach.