PNP intensifies manhunt in killing of Bulacan police officer

The Philippine National Police has intensified its investigation and manhunt against those behind the killing of a 38-year-old female police officer whose body was found in Bulacan five days after she and her son were reported missing.

PNP Chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. ordered investigators to fast-track the case and identify all individuals involved in the killing of Police Senior Master Sgt. Diane Marie Mollenido.

Mollenido’s body was discovered on 24 January in a creek along the Pulilan–Baliuag Bypass Road in Barangay Dulong Malabon, Bulacan. Authorities said she had been missing for several days before her body was found.

Police are also conducting verification procedures to determine whether the body of a young boy found on Thursday night, 29 January, in a calamansi farm in Barangay Maluid, Victoria, Tarlac, is Mollenido’s missing son. Results of forensic examinations are still pending.

Nartatez also directed concerned police units to track down all possible suspects, including a car agent identified as a person of interest in the case.

Investigators are examining all possible motives behind the killing as part of the ongoing case build-up.

The PNP said it will extend financial assistance, protection, and other necessary support to the victim’s family as the investigation continues.