05/06/2026
Salute to the dedicated men and women of Danao City Police Station for their unwavering commitment to safeguarding our community. Through their vigilance, service, and partnership with the people, they help uphold peace and order, reflecting the true heart of the Danao City Government— a community that cares, protects, and works together for the welfare of every Danawanon.
PRESS RELEASE
June 3, 2026
DANAO CITY POLICE STATION EARNS U.S. COMMENDATION FOR ROLE IN CAPTURE OF AMERICAN FUGITIVE
The Danao City Police Station has earned international recognition after receiving a Certificate of Commendation from the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service – Overseas Criminal Investigations, honoring the station's vital role in the successful location and arrest of an American fugitive in Cebu.
The commendation was formally presented on June 3, 2026, at the Danao City Police Station headquarters in Barangay Poblacion by Ms. Thea Amaya, representing the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service.
The award recognized the exemplary performance, professionalism, and operational excellence demonstrated by DCPS personnel under the leadership of PLTCOL HENRIX P BANCOLETA, Chief of Police, during a joint law enforcement operation conducted on April 28, 2026.
The operation resulted in the arrest of a 44-year-old American national who had been declared an undesirable alien due to pending criminal charges in the United States, including allegations involving threats to publish intimate visual material and attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, as well as immigration violations for overstaying in the Philippines.
The fugitive's arrest was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Bureau of Immigration-Fugitive Search Unit, Regional Intelligence Unit 7 (RIU7), Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Cebu Police Provincial Office (PIU-CPPO), and the Danao City Police Station. Acting on information relayed by foreign law enforcement authorities regarding outstanding warrants issued by the Galveston County Sheriff's Office in Texas, USA, the operating teams successfully tracked and apprehended the subject without incident.
The recognition from the U.S. Department of State underscores the growing trust and cooperation between Philippine and American law enforcement agencies in combating transnational crime and ensuring that fugitives are brought to justice regardless of borders.
PCOL ABUBAKAR UDANG MANGELEN JR., Provincial Director of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, hailed the commendation as a testament to the professionalism and competence of Cebu's police force. "This recognition from the U.S. Department of State is a proud moment not only for Danao City Police Station but for the entire Cebu Police Provincial Office. It affirms the capability of our personnel to effectively work alongside national and international law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice and safeguarding our communities. We commend the operating units for their dedication, vigilance, and commitment to duty," PCOL Mangelen said.
Meanwhile, PBGEN ARNOLD EVANGELISTA ABAD, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 7, emphasized that the commendation reflects the high standards of service and operational excellence being upheld by the Philippine National Police. "The recognition bestowed upon Danao City Police Station is a reflection of the professionalism, integrity, and operational readiness of our police personnel. This accomplishment demonstrates that through strong partnerships, intelligence-driven operations, and unwavering commitment to the rule of law, we can effectively address security concerns that transcend national boundaries. I congratulate the men and women involved in this successful operation for bringing honor to PRO7 and the PNP," PBGEN Abad stated.
For her part, Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro lauded the collaborative efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved and expressed pride in the international recognition received by the province. "This commendation is a source of pride for the Province of Cebu. It showcases the dedication of our law enforcement officers and the strength of inter-agency cooperation in ensuring peace, security, and justice. We commend the Danao City Police Station, Cebu PPO, and all partner agencies for their outstanding work and for demonstrating that Cebu remains a reliable partner in upholding the law and protecting our communities," Governor Baricuatro said.
The Cebu Police Provincial Office reiterated its commitment to strengthening partnerships with local, national, and international law enforcement agencies in addressing transnational crimes, apprehending wanted persons, and ensuring that Cebu remains a safe and secure place for residents and visitors alike.
The commendation serves as a reminder that effective law enforcement knows no borders and that cooperation among agencies remains a powerful tool in the pursuit of justice.
