PNP conducts operation vs Bantag at Ifugao poultry farm

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The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said an operation was conducted to arrest former Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) chief Gerald Bantag at a poultry farm in Barangay Pugol, Lamut, Ifugao on Sunday.

However, Bantag was not found at the location during the operation.

“Police conducted an operation at a poultry farm in Barangay Pugol, Lamut, Ifugao on November 1 after receiving information that Bantag was hiding there and posing as a poultry worker,” the PNP said in a statement.

“However, he was not found at the location,” it added.

The PNP said it remains committed to pursuing Bantag, who is wanted over his alleged involvement in the 2022 killing of broadcaster Percival Mabasa or "Percy Lapid."

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said authorities would continue their efforts to serve the warrant against Bantag.

“We will not allow the passage of time or repeated attempts to evade arrest to weaken our resolve. The PNP will remain relentless in pursuing those who are wanted by the law,” Nartatez said.

“Every lead will be pursued, every lawful opportunity will be acted upon, and we will not stop until they are brought before the courts to answer for the charges against them,” he added.

Nartatez described the recent operation as proof of the police force's determination to locate and arrest wanted individuals.

“This is not a setback but a proof that we remain relentless in locating and arresting him as well as other high-profile fugitives,” he said.

The PNP also called on the public to provide information that could help authorities locate Bantag and other wanted individuals.

In April 2023, a Muntinlupa Regional Trial Court court ordered the arrest of Bantag in connection with the death of Jun Villamor, the alleged middleman in the killing of broadcaster Percy Lapid in October 2022.

Bantag has denied the allegations against him.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) previously said a P2-million reward would be given for information leading to Bantag’s arrest. — RSJ, GMA News