A 19-year-old man accused of raping his cousin was arrested in Libona, Bukidnon on Monday, July 7, 2025.

According to the Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10), the suspect identified as alias “Mar-mar,” a plumber, was arrested by virtue of a warrant for statutory rape with no bail recommended.

Police tagged the suspect as number eight most wanted person in the region.

PRO-10 said the suspect allegedly abused his 14-year-old cousin sexually in August 2024. The abuse reportedly happened three times inside the suspect’s house.

The suspect was also allegedly under the influence of alcohol when he committed the crime.

Police said the incident was not reported to authorities immediately because the suspect allegedly threatened the victim.

“The case was only reported to the authority this year when the victim’s parents discovered that their child was pregnant,” PRO-10 said.

The suspect is now detained.

“This arrest reflects our intensified efforts to bring justice to victims and ensure that criminals are held accountable for their actions. PRO10 will remain relentless in pursuing those who violate the law, especially those who prey on vulnerable members of our society,” PRO-10 Director, Brigadier General Rolindo Suguilon, said.