Missing PDL from New Bilibid Prison Apprehended by Angono Police

August 18, 2023

2–3 minutes

PRESS STATEMENT PLTGEN RHODERICK C. ARMAMENTO, APC-SL COMMANDER

Today, I am pleased to announce the successful apprehension of a person deprived of liberty (PDL) who had previously gone missing from the New Bilibid Prison Maximum Security Compound. The diligent efforts of the Angono Municipal Police Station have culminated in the arrest of the fugitive, identified as Michael Angelo Cataroja y Laurel, a 26-year-old, male, resident of Sitio Minahan Bato, DOMSA, Brgy San Isidro, Angono, Rizal. This operation took place on August 17, 2023, at Sitio Manggahan, Barangay San Isidro, Angono, Rizal.

The immediate response of the Angono MPS was initiated by a concerned citizen’s valuable tip regarding the fugitive’s presence in their vicinity. Promptly, the Angono MPS sprang into action, devising a strategic plan that ultimately led to the successful apprehension of the fugitive.
Authorities have revealed that Cataroja was initially sentenced and confined to the Bureau of Corrections on July 26, 2022. Subsequently, on October 20, 2022, he was transferred to the Maximum Security Compound due to pending charges of carnapping. Unfortunately, he had managed to evade authorities since July 7, 2023. Moreover, on August 5, 2023, the Bureau of Corrections, led by C/CSUPT Celso S Bravo, Director for Security and Operations, initiated a coordinated effort with our office to seek assistance in the pursuit of escaped prisoner, Cataroja. After an entire month of evading, an anonymous informant came forward, leading to the swift intervention of our PNP personnel.
The collaborative operation, executed with precision, exemplifies the effectiveness of inter-agency synergy when combating criminal elements. The unwavering commitment of the Bureau of Corrections and our personnel here at PRO CALABARZON has culminated in the successful coordination and subsequent arrest of the escapee.

I commend the exemplary work carried out by the Angono MPS in apprehending the fugitive, underscoring the pivotal role played by community collaboration. This achievement underscores the significance of the unity between law enforcement and the community. To my fellow citizens, I extend my profound gratitude for your unwavering support towards our operations. Rest assured that the police force remains resolute in our commitment to ensure the swift administration of justice, particularly for those who evade the reach of the law.

Furthermore, the fugitive is currently under the custody of the Angono Municipal Police Station and will subsequently be handed over to the Bureau of Corrections for proper disposition.

Sa ating mga kababayan, ako’y lubos na nagpapasalamat sa inyong suporta sa ating isinasagawang operasyon. Ang matagumpay na pagkakahuli sa bilanggong ito ay pagpapakita ng kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa ng kapulisan at ng pamayanan. Makakaasa kayo na hindi titigil ang inyong kapulisan hanggang hindi napaparusahan ang mga kriminal, lalo na ang mga nagtatago sa kamay ng batas.

Maraming salamat at mabuhay po tayong lahat!