PNP Chief Orders Full-Scale Manhunt After Two High-Profile Killings
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has issued a directive for a comprehensive manhunt targeting the perpetrators behind the separate fatal shootings of a former beauty queen in Isabela and an electric cooperative director in Oriental Mindoro. The police chief emphasized that mere condemnation of these acts is insufficient, vowing to pursue justice through the identification and arrest of all individuals involved.
Details of the Isabela Incident
In Isabela, former Miss Philippines-Earth runner-up Lullete Jane Ramilo-De Guzman, who had transitioned to a career as a public school teacher, was tragically killed. The incident occurred on Friday, February 13, 2026, in Barangay Cabaritan, San Manuel town. Ramilo-De Guzman was inside her vehicle with her children when an unidentified gunman opened fire. She was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, while her children fortunately emerged unharmed from the attack.
Details of the Oriental Mindoro Incident
In a separate incident in Oriental Mindoro, Antonio Mendeja, a director of the Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, was shot and killed. Mendeja had made a brief stop to inspect his vehicle in Pinamalayan town when a gunman approached and fired at him. The motive behind this shooting remains under investigation as authorities work to piece together the circumstances.
Police Response and Strategic Measures
General Nartatez has taken immediate action by directing the directors of Police Regional Offices 2 (Cagayan Valley) and 4B (Mimaropa) to conduct in-depth investigations into both cases. The primary objectives are to determine the motives behind these killings and to facilitate the swift identification and arrest of those responsible.
Furthermore, Nartatez has instructed all police commanders to enhance crime prevention efforts through a series of strategic measures. These include:
- Establishment of checkpoints in key areas
- Increased police visibility in communities
- Strategic deployment of personnel under the Enhanced Managing Police Operation (Empo) framework
The police chief stressed that these measures must be supported by aggressive operations targeting loose firearms and the apprehension of wanted persons, who are often repeat offenders. He highlighted that such proactive strategies are crucial for denying criminal elements opportunities to strike, ensuring immediate response capabilities, and guaranteeing the certainty of arrest.
Appeal for Public Assistance
In his statement, General Nartatez also made a public appeal, urging anyone with relevant information regarding either incident to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigations. He emphasized that community cooperation is vital for achieving justice and maintaining the rule of law in these troubling cases.
