Two suspects were arrested following a swift hot pursuit operation after a shooting incident that wounded three individuals, including a candidate for the Municipal Council of San Pablo, Isabela.

According to a report from the Isabela Police Provincial Office, the incident happened at around 9:40 PM on April 25, 2025, in Barangay Bungad, San Pablo.The victims were identified as Mark Jhon Paul Tipon, 34, a candidate for City Council; Mark Francis Antonio, 25; and Jhon Lloyd Duran, 21 — all residents of Barangay Poblacion, San Pablo.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the victims were riding a pick-up vehicle when assailants aboard a white Toyota Hi-Lux Conquest opened fire. The victims, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, were immediately rushed to Milagros Albano District Hospital in Cabagan for emergency treatment. They were later transferred to a hospital in Tuguegarao City for further medical care.

In response, personnel of the San Pablo Municipal Police Station, assisted by the 1st Isabela Provincial Mobile Force Company and the 205th Maneuver Company of Regional Mobile Force Battalion 2, launched hot pursuit operations. Intelligence operatives were also deployed, and high-risk checkpoints were established across key areas. A flash alarm was immediately dispatched, ensuring tight coordination among police units across Region 2.

The operation was personally overseen by PBGEN Antonio P. Marallag Jr., Regional Director of Police Regional Office 2 (PRO2), along with PCOL Rodelio C. Samson, Deputy Regional Director for Operations; PCOL Victor P. Pagulayan, Force Commander of RMFB2; and PCOL Lee Allen B. Bauding, Provincial Director of Isabela Police Provincial Office.

Thanks to the swift action of law enforcement, two suspects were arrested at around 11:10 PM in Barangay Poblacion, San Pablo.Recovered from the suspects were:

• One caliber .45 pistol loaded with seven rounds;

• One caliber .45 magazine with seven additional bullets;

• Four extra caliber .45 bullets;

• A black gun holster;

• A fan knife; and

• The white Toyota Hi-Lux Conquest allegedly used during the attack.

  
  

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the motive behind the shooting. All possible angles are being explored, with police closely coordinating with local government units and communities to gather more information.

In a statement, PBGEN Marallag Jr. condemned the violent act and reassured the public of the police's commitment to swift justice.

“Violence of any kind will never be acceptable, especially if it aims to disrupt the tranquility of our communities, particularly during this election season. The rapid apprehension of suspects demonstrates our determination to protect the rights and safety of every citizen. We will continue to intensify security efforts to ensure smooth, peaceful, and fair elections throughout Region 2,” he said.

PRO2 also called on the public to remain calm but vigilant, urging anyone with additional information to immediately report to the nearest police station.