6-3-2025 (MANILA) Authorities have apprehended and filed arson charges against one of the individuals allegedly responsible for bombing a photojournalist’s vehicle last month in Quezon City, Philippines.

The Quezon City Police District’s Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit made the breakthrough arrest at approximately 6 pm on 3 March in Barangay UP Campus. The suspect, identified only by the alias “Totoy”, was traced with assistance from a female witness who provided crucial testimony.

According to investigators, the witness observed “Totoy” and an accomplice carrying plastic bottles, fabric, and petrol towards Barangay Pinyahan hours before the 19 February attack. The perpetrators allegedly used a Molotov cocktail to target the journalist’s car, which was parked outside their residence, causing significant damage to portions of the vehicle.

Background checks revealed the suspect has a prior criminal record, with previous imprisonment for illegal gambling activities and violations of the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.

The attack on the photojournalist’s vehicle, which occurred in a residential area of Pinyahan, represents a concerning development for media safety in the region. Police continue their investigation to identify additional suspects involved in the incident.