- Child rescued in Christmas Eve DCPO operation
THE DAVAO City Police Office (DCPO) rescued a toddler and arrested the female suspect in Carmen, North Cotabato, on Christmas Eve, ending a cross-province pursuit that began at the Davao City Overland Transport Terminal (DCOTT).
The incident occurred on Dec. 23, 2025, at approximately 11:30 a.m. inside DCOTT. It was officially reported to the police at 3:45 p.m. that same day.
Upon receipt of the complaint, the DCPO Women and Children Protection Desk (WCPD) launched a follow-up investigation, which included CCTV backtracking, intelligence validation, and close coordination with law enforcement units in Kidapawan City and Carmen, North Cotabato.
These efforts led to the apprehension of the suspect at approximately 6:50 p.m. on Dec. 24, 2024, in Sitio Kilabao, Barangay Kimadzil, Carmen, North Cotabato.
Davao City Police Office (DCPO) acting city director Col Mannan Caracas Muarip said the suspect is facing a charge for violating Article 270 of the Revised Penal Code (failure to return a minor).
“The immediate response and decisive actions taken by our personnel demonstrate the DCPO’s firm resolve to protect our children and uphold public safety,” Muarip said. “From the moment the incident was reported, our investigators and operating units worked relentlessly to track the suspect, recover the minor, and ensure accountability.”
Muarip also warned those thinking about harming children: “The DCPO will exhaust all resources—personnel, intelligence, and technology—to arrest anyone involved in crimes against minors. There will be no safe haven for offenders.”
Meanwhile, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving children immediately.
