Authorities have arrested the suspect in the killing of a Grade 9 student whose body was found in Valencia City, Bukidnon, police confirmed.
The victim, identified as Jenniffer Encanacion, was discovered at about 11 a.m. on Jan. 8, 2025, in Purok Sinait, Barangay Dagat Kidavao, Valencia City. She had been reported missing for two days before her body was found in a farm area.
Police identified the suspect as Marlon Rosaot, a resident of Purok 6, Sinait Dagat Kidavao. He was arrested in a mountainous area of Sitio Buco, Barangay Banlag, Valencia City, following a joint operation involving tribal leaders, community warriors known as bagani, barangay tanod, police and military personnel.
Datu Robin Mansalohon said several bagani helped locate and corner the suspect. He did not resist arrest, according to authorities.
Barangay officials from Dagat Kidavao and Banlag, along with police and military personnel, were present during the turnover of the suspect.
Valencia City Vice Mayor Cecel Galario also witnessed the handover, during which the suspect was informed of his Miranda rights.
Police said the situation was tense due to the emotions of the victim’s family, but authorities were able to control the crowd and prevent harm to the suspect.
Investigators said Rosaot was identified as the person responsible for slashing the victim’s neck. An autopsy showed the victim was not raped.
Police said the suspect admitted committing the crime but failed to give a clear motive.
Authorities also disclosed that Rosaot had recently been released from prison after serving nine years for killing the child of his live-in partner.
The suspect is currently detained at the Valencia City Police Station and will face appropriate charges, police said.
