Sigma’s No. 1 rape suspect surrenders

By Felipe V. Celino

SIGMA, Capiz — The town’s No. 1 most wanted person, who is facing rape charges, voluntarily surrendered to Mayor Dante Rizal A. Eslabon and the Sigma police on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

Police identified the suspect only as alias “Jojo,” who is facing two counts of statutory rape in connection with Republic Act No. 7610, or the Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.

Republic Act No. 7610 provides stronger deterrence and special protection against child abuse, exploitation, and discrimination.

Police Maj. Narciso Sables, chief of the Sigma Municipal Police Station, said the surrender was made through the efforts of Barangay Oyong village chief Juan Santiago and village Councilor Joe Alfred Candido.

Police said the 33-year-old suspect is a native of Romblon and allegedly committed the offense when he was 28.

Sables said the warrant of arrest against the suspect was issued in 2021.

He added that the suspect was willing to surrender in the hope of resolving his case and living properly.

The suspect is in the custody of the Sigma police for proper disposition and court referral.

The Sigma municipal government earlier passed an ordinance granting PHP 50,000 to anyone who could pinpoint the whereabouts of persons wanted in rape cases.

Names and photos of wanted rape suspects have been posted at the Sigma public plaza and police station for public viewing.