December 3, 2025Dec 3 Photo courtesy of Balita In a significant achievement for the Manila Police District (MPD), three of the top wanted criminals in the National Capital Region (NCR) have been arrested. The suspects, Nexus Hegina Villaruel, Efren Parane Fernandez, and Fernando Sorio Aquino, were presented to the public by Manila City Mayor Isko Domagoso through a Facebook post shared on Tuesday, December 2. Dubbed "tolongges" by Mayor Moreno, these individuals were captured despite attempting to evade the law by fleeing to distant locations. The arrests were facilitated by the Special Mayor’s Reaction Team (S.Ma.R.T). Nexus Hegina Villaruel, ranked fifth on the NCR's Most Wanted list and first for the MPD, was apprehended on charges of rape involving two minors. He was detained on November 23, 2025, in Camarines Sur. Meanwhile, Efren Parane Fernandez, listed as the ninth most wanted at a regional level, was captured in Mexico, Pampanga, for acts of lasciviousness. Fernando Sorio Aquino, 38, notorious for a hostage situation in Masangkay, faced charges including alarm and scandal, illegal possession of deadly weapons, and violations under the Dangerous Drugs Act (RA 9165). Mayor Moreno emphasized that the arrests send a clear message to those attempting to evade justice — Manila's government remains vigilant and committed to holding criminals accountable. Moreno warned, “To all who try to hide: remember, there is a government in Manila. We do not sleep, and we will ensure you face the law and pay for your actions.” The arrest of these suspects underscores the effectiveness of coordinated law enforcement efforts in the capital. By targeting and capturing those on the most wanted list, authorities aim to improve safety and uphold justice within the community, reported Balita. Key Takeaways Manila Police District arrested three top wanted criminals in NCR. Mayor Domagoso praised the Special Mayor’s Reaction Team's efforts. Arrests emphasize Manila's commitment to enforcing the law. Click here for more Philippine stories Adapted by ASEAN Now from Balita 2025-12-03
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