Ang Pahayagan

PAMPANGA — A 47-year-old driver suspected in the killing of a Lebanese national in Baliwag City has voluntarily surrendered to police, confessing to the crime and turning over the firearm allegedly used in the incident.

The suspect, identified by authorities as “Ramil,” a resident of Barangay Malou, Gapan City, Nueva Ecija, presented himself at the Baliwag City Police Station in Barangay Pagala at around 10:30 a.m. on Monday, December 8, 2025. During the surrender, he admitted to fatally shooting “Mr. Khalil,” a Lebanese national, in an incident that occurred last month.

Initial police investigation revealed that the shooting took place on November 23, 2025, between 7:00 p.m. and 7:11 p.m., inside a village in Barangay Sabang, Baliwag City. The suspect also surrendered an Armscor STK 9mm pistol bearing serial number RIA2712783, which police believe was used in the killing.

Authorities said the voluntary surrender enabled investigators to secure both a sworn confession and the suspected murder weapon, strengthening the ongoing case build-up and judicial proceedings.

Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) Director Police Brigadier General Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr. acknowledged the actions of the Baliwag City Police Station and stressed the importance of accountability in crimes of violence.

“A life was lost and a family is now looking for answers,” Peñones Jr. said. “Everyone deserves to feel safe—whoever they are and wherever they come from. Our investigators will ensure that the evidence is properly presented in court and that the law takes its course.”

The regional director also emphasized that cases involving foreign nationals are handled with the same level of seriousness and transparency as all other major crimes, noting Central Luzon’s role as home to diverse communities.

“People should be able to live, visit, and do business here without fear. That responsibility rests with us as law enforcers,” he added.

Investigators are now determining the motive behind the killing while coordinating closely with the victim’s family. Appropriate charges are being prepared as police continue to gather supporting documents, forensic results, and witness statements.

PRO3 assured the public that the case will be pursued fairly and professionally, in full adherence to due process and the rule of law. (Jason de Asis)

📸 A 47-year-old suspect in the killing of a Lebanese national in Baliwag City voluntarily surrendered to police, confessing to the crime and turning over the firearm allegedly used in the shooting. PRO3 assured the public that the case is being handled with professionalism, due process, and respect for the rule of law. (Jason de Asis)