MALAPATAN, Sarangani Province – A 29-year-old pastor who had been listed as a regional-level wanted person was arrested by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) SOCCSKSARGEN during an Oplan Pagtugis operation in Barangay Upper Lasanga, Malapatan, Sarangani Province.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Mikoy,” is facing a charge of statutory rape based on a warrant of arrest issued by the Regional Trial Court, 12th Judicial Region, Branch 13 in Polomolok, South Cotabato, on December 16, 2025.
According to Police Major Julius Vallejo, Provincial Officer of CIDG Sarangani Field Office, the operation successfully located and arrested the suspect after authorities had previously failed to serve the warrant on two occasions because he was not at his residence.
Investigators said the criminal complaint stemmed from allegations that the suspect repeatedly sexually abused his minor in-law inside their former residence in Polomolok, South Cotabato, sometime last year. The complaint was reportedly filed by the victim’s immediate family member.
Authorities withheld the identity of the victim in compliance with laws protecting the privacy of minors and victims of sexual abuse.
CIDG said the suspect, who serves as a pastor in his community, had been included in the list of wanted persons at the regional level before his eventual arrest.
Family members of the suspect expressed shock over the accusations, saying they had known him to be active and dedicated in his religious ministry. Despite their disbelief, they said they would respect the legal process and support whatever lawful proceedings would follow.
Following his arrest, the suspect was placed under the custody of CIDG SOCCSKSARGEN while awaiting the issuance of a commitment order from the court for his transfer to the appropriate detention facility.
The pastor will face prosecution for statutory rape, a serious offense under Philippine law involving sexual intercourse with a child below the age of consent, regardless of consent or the relationship between the parties.
Authorities emphasized that while the suspect has been arrested pursuant to a valid court-issued warrant, he remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt in a court of law.
CIDG renewed its appeal for victims of abuse and their families to report similar incidents to law enforcement authorities, assuring the public that cases involving children and other vulnerable sectors will continue to be pursued under its intensified campaign against wanted persons.