By Vhioly Rosatazo
Santa Maria, Bulacan — Authorities in Santa Maria, Bulacan, swiftly apprehended a male suspect involved in two convenience store robberies on the night of February 11, 2026.
The first incident occurred around 6:54 p.m. at Alfamart 5 in Barangay Pulong Buhangin, followed by a second hold-up at approximately 7:28 p.m. at Alfamart 3 in Barangay San Jose Patag.
The suspect, identified only as Ariel, 37, a security guard and native of Samar currently residing in Santa Maria, resisted arrest during a police pursuit, resulting in minor injuries to an officer’s hand.
Recovered from Ariel were the motorcycles used in the robberies, a firearm loaded with four bullets, a reversible jacket, a tactical sling bag containing a wallet and Security Bank ATM card, and a total of ₱18,876.97 stolen from both branches.
Police confirmed that Ariel will face multiple charges, including two counts of robbery (hold-up), frustrated homicide, and violations of Republic Act 10951.
The Santa Maria Police Department issued a stern warning to would-be criminals: the town will not tolerate lawlessness, and anyone attempting to commit a crime will be met with swift and firm action.
