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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Security in Tawi-Tawi, nearby areas beefed up to prevent escape of fugitives

Security in Tawi-Tawi, nearby areas beefed up to prevent escape of fugitives

Published Feb 25, 2026 02:15 pm
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), has ordered the intensified security in Tawi-Tawi and nearby areas to prevent high-profile fugitives from leaving the country.
The order came after Bureau of Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said wanted persons and high-profile fugitives are using the backdoor exits, which include the province, to evade the law.
“I have instructed the provincial police in Tawi-Tawi to heighten police presence in the areas being used by suspects who want to escape and leave the country. This is a strategic measure to secure our borders and deny fugitives and all law offenders the opportunity to escape justice and accountability,” said Nartatez.
“Through proper coordination with other agencies, we have identified these locations and will deploy additional personnel, assets, and resources there,” he added.
Some high-profile personalities who have allegedly used backdoor exits include former Bamban, Tarlac mayor Alice Guo and former Negros Oriental representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr.
Authorities also noted that businessman Atong Ang, facing charges related to the missing sabungeros case, could potentially use this route if he is no longer in the Philippines.
“We will continue working with other law enforcement offices, particularly the Bureau of Immigration and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, to prevent the escape of individuals using these backdoor exits,” said Nartatez.
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