In a significant development regarding high-profile criminal cases involving law enforcement personnel, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has publicly expressed strong optimism about securing convictions. During a press conference held on Monday, February 2, 2026, and reiterated in a statement on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, Nartatez emphasized the robustness of the evidence gathered by investigators.
Confidence in Case Strength
General Nartatez highlighted the meticulous efforts of PNP investigators from the outset of the investigations. "Our investigators in both cases really did their job to solve the cases since Day 1. All angles were pursued, and all pieces of evidence were obtained and meticulously reviewed to build a strong case," he stated. This thorough approach has bolstered the PNP's confidence in the legal outcomes.
He further added, "With the evidence we have to support the cases, we are confident that there is a certainty of conviction in court against those involved." This assertion underscores the PNP's commitment to ensuring justice is served through proper judicial processes.
Details of the Solved Cases
In a related press conference on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla declared the brutal murders of Police Senior Master Sergeant Diane Marie Mollenido and her 8-year-old son, John Ysmael, as "solved." This resolution came after the arrest of two alleged masterminds, who were revealed to be former lovers of the policewoman, along with two accomplices.
Ongoing Investigation in Bulacan
Meanwhile, the focus has shifted to the remaining suspects in the murder of Police Staff Sergeant Renato Casauay Jr., including the identified gunman, Julian Salamat. Casauay's body was recovered from a septic tank at a house in Malolos, Bulacan, highlighting the severity of the crime.
Secretary Remulla indicated that Casauay's killing is linked to his duties as a member of the Police Drug Enforcement Unit, suggesting a possible connection to drug-related activities. Among those arrested is a Police Corporal who failed to apprehend Salamat when he attempted to confess to the crime.
Reward for Apprehension
In support of the ongoing manhunt, General Nartatez has accepted Secretary Remulla's decision to offer a P1-million reward for the capture of Julian Salamat and other suspects charged in Casauay's murder. Nartatez believes this incentive will significantly aid the PNP in tracking down Salamat and his group, enhancing efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice.
The PNP's proactive stance in these cases reflects a broader effort to address crimes within and against the police force, aiming to restore public trust and uphold law and order in the Philippines.
