PNP intensifies hunt for Bucol killers as bounty climbs to P5M

DIGOS CITY, DAVAO DEL SUR — The Philippine National Police has intensified its pursuit of the suspects behind the killing of Barangay Tres de Mayo Captain Oscar “Dodong” Bucol Jr., rolling out an expanded manhunt as the bounty for key information surges to ₱5 million.

Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered police units across Davao del Sur and neighboring regions to tighten coordination, deploy more tracker teams, and chase every available lead. Barangay intelligence networks have also been activated to help fast-track the identification of both the gunman and the mastermind.

Police operatives are now working 24/7, with multiple teams sweeping potential hideouts and monitoring persons of interest. Investigators are also consolidating witness accounts and surveillance footage gathered in the days following the attack.

The reward pool—meant to encourage informants to step forward—now includes ₱1 million each from the Bucol family, Vice President Sara Duterte, Governor Yvonne Cagas, and former governor Claude Bautista. On Thursday night, Davao City Mayor Baste Duterte added another ₱1 million, raising the total to ₱5 million.

The killing of Captain Bucol has sparked public outrage and heightened calls for swift justice. Police officials have assured residents that “significant progress” is underway and vowed relentless pursuit until the perpetrators are caught.

Authorities are urging anyone with credible information to immediately contact local police or the nearest station as the investigation intensifies.