A top suspect in the killing of two Bulacan policemen earlier on March 8, 2025 was killed in a police encounter in Baggao, Cagayan, nearly three months after he went into hiding.

Authorities identified the suspect as alias “Xander," who had been on the run for nearly three months, when two policemen — PSSg Cudiamat and PSSg Dela Cruz — were shot dead in San Ildefonso, Bulacan.

Police said they cornered the suspect at around noon in Zone 7, Barangay Bacagan, where he had reportedly been hiding.

Instead of surrendering, the suspect pulled out a gun and opened fire on the police, allegedly.

The suspect reportedly said that he would not allow himself to be taken alive.

Police were forced to fire back, hitting the suspect. He died at the scene.

Recovered from the area was a Glock pistol, which police believe belonged to one of the slain officers.

“Nakamtaan na ang hustisya para kina PSSg Cudiamat at Dela Cruz. Alinsunod sa utos ng Pangulo, patuloy na kikilos ang sandatahang kapulisan para sa mas ligtas na komunidad,” PBGen Jean Fajardo, director of Police Regional Office 3, said.

Police continue to search for other suspects involved in the killing.