Farmer arrested over rape charges in Iloilo

By Jennifer P. Rendon

A farmer was arrested during a police manhunt operation on the morning of Jan. 8 in Leon, Iloilo.

Police identified the suspect as a 55-year-old man known by the alias Toto, a resident of Leon, who was apprehended along Capalla Avenue in Poblacion, Leon.

Authorities said the arrest was carried out by virtue of a warrant for five counts of statutory rape.

The warrant was issued by the Family Court of the Regional Trial Court Branch 5 in Iloilo City on Jan. 7, 2026.

The court recommended no bail for the suspect’s temporary liberty.

Police said the suspect is listed as the fourth most wanted person in Western Visayas.

Records from Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 showed that 2,661 wanted persons were arrested across the region last year.

Of that number, 712 individuals were on the most wanted list.

PBrig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, director of PRO 6, said the arrest highlights the Philippine National Police’s continued commitment to justice, particularly in cases involving crimes against children.

PRO 6 urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperative, noting that strong community support is essential in maintaining public safety and ensuring justice for victims.