The Quezon City Police District (QCPD) has identified one of the suspects behind the Molotov attack on a photojournalist in Barangay Pinyahan, Quezon City, authorities announced on Thursday, March 6.
The incident occurred on Feb. 19 at 2:35 a.m. along Matipuno Street, Barangay Pinyahan.
Following an investigation led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit (CIDU) under Maj. Don Don Llapitan, the suspect was identified as Reynaldo Bañano Regondola or “Totoy.”
Authorities said another suspect remains unidentified and is still at large.
Investigation and pursuit operations are ongoing.
According to a witness, "Totoy" and another man were seen on Feb. 18 at around 7:30 p.m. on Pook Aguinaldo Street, Barangay UP Campus.
They were carrying plastic bottles, pieces of cloth, and a container of gasoline with an attached lighter.
When asked about their activities, "Totoy" reportedly laughed and said, “Tingnan mo na lang sa balita (Just watch the news).”
The witness later connected them to the Feb. 19 attack and informed the authorities.
On March 3, CIDU operatives searched the area where the suspects were last seen and recovered a 500mL electrolyte drink bottle suspected to contain gasoline, two cut-up water bottles with a cloth inside, and a pair of gloves.
These items were now part of the ongoing investigation.
Arson charges under Article 320 of the Revised Penal Code have been filed against "Totoy" and his unidentified accomplice.
A background check also revealed that "Totoy," had previous cases related to illegal gambling and firearms violations.
QCPD Director Col. Melecio Buslig, Jr. assured the public that authorities are committed to bringing all those involved to justice.
“We are committed to ensuring justice is served and will continue our efforts to apprehend all individuals involved in this crime,” he said. (Jhoana Mae Delfin)