A ROBBERY attempt at the Grandtours Terminal in Catbalogan City turned deadly on Saturday evening, March 28, culminating in a shootout that left one suspect deceased, another injured, and a third still at large.
The incident, which occurred at approximately 7:35 p.m. in Barangay 3, just a stone’s throw from the city police station, highlights the brazenness of criminal elements and the swift response of law enforcement.
The confrontation began when three armed individuals entered the terminal’s cashier’s office, announced a hold-up, and demanded cash and mobile phones from employees. The owners of Grandtours Corporation, identified as “Jan” (39) and “Mik” (34), monitored the robbery via CCTV cameras. Taking immediate action, they armed themselves and pursued the fleeing suspects, initiating a fierce exchange of gunfire. This pursuit by the victims, while brave, escalated the situation dramatically.
The ensuing shootout resulted in injuries to two of the suspects. They were taken to Samar Provincial Hospital, where one of them, known as “Jer,” was pronounced dead upon arrival.
Authorities recovered a .45-caliber pistol with six live rounds, ₱15,480 in cash, and a mobile phone from the deceased suspect. The second wounded suspect, “Rob,” is currently under hospital confinement. He sustained gunshot wounds and reportedly provided information regarding his accomplices.
Police also retrieved a bladed weapon and clothing from him, which they believe he used in the commission of the crime.
A manhunt is currently underway for the third suspect, identified as “Ado,” who managed to escape the scene and is believed to be armed. The total amount of cash stolen during the robbery has yet to be determined as authorities, including the Scene of the Crime operatives, continue their investigation into the incident. The PNP’s swift response and ongoing efforts aim to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of the community.
