OLONGAPO CITY — A tense hostage situation gripped residents of Graham Street, Barangay East Bajac-Bajac, on Thursday morning when a 22-year-old man held his eight-months-pregnant live-in partner at knifepoint inside their home.
According to Barangay Official Cesar Lobos, who immediately called for police assistance, the incident occurred shortly after 9 a.m. following an argument reportedly fueled by jealousy.
The suspect allegedly lost control and locked himself inside the residence with the 27 year old victim, threatening to harm her.
Emergency responders from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) and members of the SWAT team quickly arrived at the scene, sealing off the area as residents watched anxiously from a distance.
Authorities attempted to negotiate with the suspect for more than an hour amid mounting tension and uncertainty.
The standoff ended peacefully after Mayor Atty. Rolen Paulino Jr. personally intervened, appealing to the suspect to surrender and spare his partner.
The suspect eventually yielded, releasing the victim and handing over his weapon to police officers.
The victim, visibly shaken but unharmed, was immediately provided with medical attention. The suspect is now in police custody and facing possible charges related to illegal detention and threats.
Residents of Graham Street lauded the swift response of barangay officials, law enforcement, and the city government, crediting their coordination for preventing a potential tragedy.