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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider PNP vows justice for families of bizwoman, driver found dead inside burnt car in Nueva Ecija

PNP vows justice for families of bizwoman, driver found dead inside burnt car in Nueva Ecija

Published Mar 13, 2026 07:03 pm
Two charred bodies are discovered by authorities inside a burning car in Peñaranda, Nueva Ecija on March 9, 2026. (Photo via Liezle Inigo)
Two charred bodies are discovered by authorities inside a burning car in Peñaranda, Nueva Ecija on March 9, 2026. (Photo via Liezle Inigo)
The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Friday, March 13, pledged to deliver swift justice for the families of a businesswoman and her companion who were shot dead and found inside a burned vehicle in a remote area of Peñaranda, Nueva Ecija.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. commended local police units for the swift arrest of the alleged mastermind and four cohorts tagged in the killing of Regine Espinosa and Michael Odchigue.
“We want the public to know that justice will be pursued immediately. Hindi makakatakas ang mga gumagawa ng ganitong krimen sa batas (Those who commit crimes like this will not escape the law),” Nartatez said.
Investigators stated that intelligence-driven operations, including backtracking and the review of CCTV footage, helped crack the case in less than 48 hours.
Four suspects were captured during hot pursuit operations in Barangay Siempre Viva Sur in Mallig, Isabela on March 11 while another suspect was collared in Nueva Ecija.
Police said the charred bodies of the Espinosa and Odchigue, a close friend of the businesswoman whom she asked to drive her to meet potential clients, were discovered inside a torched car in Peñaranda on March 9.
“The investigation was thorough and evidence-based, and our goal is a successful prosecution. Sisiguraduhin ng PNP na makakamit ng mga biktima at kanilang pamilya ang hustisya (The PNP will ensure that the victims and their families will obtain justice),” Nartatez emphasized.
The suspects were placed under police custody and have been charged with murder.
Investigators are examining a possible debt by the primary suspect to the businesswoman and a botched apartment deal as motives for the crime.

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PNP Nueva Ecija crime
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