PRO3 probes cop’s death in Bulacan after alleged robbery, shootout

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) has launched a “thorough, impartial investigation” into the death of Police Captain Ronnie Bandales Sarto, an active officer who was killed in a shootout on 10 November after allegedly robbing a convenience store in Marilao, Bulacan.

Sarto, 43, former Assistant Chief of the Station Investigation and Detective Management Section (SIDMS) under the North Caloocan City Police Station, was declared dead on arrival at a hospital following a gunfight with pursuing police late Monday.

Authorities recovered his PNP-issued 9mm Glock 17 service firearm, stolen cash amounting to P20,000, a bag, and a jacket inside his motorcycle at the scene.

PRO3 Regional Director PBGen. Ponce Rogelio Peñones confirmed that Sarto, a Camarines Sur native residing in San Jose del Monte, Bulacan, had no prior criminal record but cited his family’s failed food business during the pandemic as a “possible motive.”

Investigators are also probing whether Sarto acted alone, with Peñones stating: “We are examining potential accomplices who may have aided in planning or executing the robbery.”

Peñones added: “Bulacan police immediately coordinated with Caloocan City counterparts to verify his identity. Even the Chief PNP confirmed it. We will not tolerate wrongdoing, regardless of rank.”

The PRO3 chief noted that convenience stores in Bulacan are equipped with direct alarm systems linked to police stations, which triggered the swift response. “Our personnel acted on the alert, unaware the suspect was an officer until after the encounter,” he said.

Peñones ordered the Bulacan Police Provincial Office (PPO) to collaborate with the Internal Affairs Service (IAS) to review Sarto’s service history and potential criminal links. “This is a breach of trust. Rest assured, sanctions will be imposed,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, Sarto’s family has requested privacy but pledged full cooperation with investigators.