Justice Sought for Slain Policewoman and Son as Formal Charges Filed

The pursuit of justice for Police Senior Master Sergeant Diane Marie Mollenido and her eight-year-old son John Ysmael has taken a significant step forward as formal complaints have been filed against their alleged killers.

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) announced Tuesday evening that complaints for two counts of robbery with homicide and theft were filed with the Quezon City Prosecutor's Office against three primary suspects on Sunday.

The Tragic Discovery

The brutal case shocked communities across Central Luzon when Diane's body was discovered on January 24 along Pulilan Bypass Road in Barangay Dulong Malabon, Pulilan, Bulacan. The dedicated policewoman had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to the head.

Five days later, the search for her young son ended in heartbreak when Ysmael's remains were found at a calamansi farm in Barangay Maluid, Victoria, Tarlac, along a farm-to-market road that connects rural communities in the province.

Suspects in Custody

The three main suspects, including a car agent described as Diane's godchild, her partner, and an accomplice, were apprehended in Novaliches, Quezon City on January 30. Their arrest brought relief to a community demanding answers for the senseless killing of a law enforcement officer and an innocent child.

"While the couple opted to remain silent, one male suspect, identified as the alleged 'striker,' made statements during a televised interview acknowledging knowledge and participation in the crime," the NCRPO stated.

Authorities emphasized that proper judicial procedures will determine accountability, noting that statements made outside formal proceedings serve only as corroborative information.

Complex Family Dynamics

Adding complexity to the case, Police Senior Master Sergeant John Mollenido, the ex-husband and father of the victims, faces obstruction of justice charges. Currently under restrictive custody, he remains a person of interest and will face administrative proceedings under existing police regulations.

On February 2, another female suspect voluntarily surrendered to authorities. Identified as the sister of the car agent's husband, she awaits inquest proceedings at the Prosecutor's Office.

A Transaction Gone Wrong

Investigation revealed that the tragedy stemmed from what should have been a routine vehicle sale. Diane and Ysmael were traveling to meet the car agent in Quezon City following a vehicle transaction completed on January 16.

According to police findings, the killings occurred inside the car agent's residence in Quezon City during a botched transaction. The agent's husband allegedly shot the policewoman, while young Ysmael was taken to another room where suspects suffocated him with a plastic bag.

The presence of the couple's three children, aged six, eight, and ten, in the house during the crime adds another layer of tragedy to an already devastating case. The suspects allegedly told their children they were going on vacation to Baguio City while disposing of the victims' bodies along the route.

Seeking Justice

This case highlights both the vulnerabilities faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of maintaining trust within Filipino communities. The systematic investigation by NCRPO demonstrates the commitment of Philippine authorities to ensure justice for fallen colleagues and innocent victims.

As the legal process moves forward, the memory of PSMSgt Mollenido's service to her community and the tragic loss of young Ysmael serves as a reminder of the precious nature of life and the importance of accountability in our justice system.