BAGUIO CITY –  A theft incident occurred at the 456 Supermart located in the Upper Basement of Baguio Centermall on July 11, 2023, at approximately 10:40 AM, sparking an investigation by the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO).

The incident was reported to Station 7 of the BCPO at around 1:15 PM on the same day.

The complainant, Severa Madayag Liclican, Sales Supervisor, provided the details of the incident.

Liclican reported that three boxes, containing a total of seventy pieces of Nestle Bear brand products worth PHP20,743.00, were stolen from the supermarket without the owner’s knowledge and consent.

The suspects involved in the theft were identified as Ariel Jhone Martinez Alquizar, aged 32 and a resident of Magsaysay, Private Road, Baguio City, and Jessie Gaspar, who is of legal age and resides at Holyghost Extension, Baguio City.

However, Gaspar remains at large at  this time.

According to the investigation, Alquizar and Gaspar collaborated with each other to sneak the stolen items out of the supermarket.

Their actions went unnoticed until a security guard apprehended Alquizar within the establishment.

The security guard managed to prevent Alquizar from leaving with the stolen goods.

As a result of his apprehension, Ariel Jhone Martinez Alquizar was taken into custody and transported to Station 7 for further investigation and legal proceedings.

However, the police are still actively searching for the remaining suspect, Jessie Gaspar, who evaded arrest during the incident.

The Baguio City Police Office is urging anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Jessie Gaspar or any additional details related to the theft to come forward and assist in their ongoing investigation.

The charges being pursued against both suspects are related to qualified theft, a serious offense punishable under the Revised Penal Code of the Philippines.

Authorities are determined to bring all responsible parties to justice and ensure the security and safety of businesses in Baguio City.

The BCPO will continue to work diligently to prevent similar incidents and maintain a peaceful environment for the community.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the Baguio City Police Office through their official hotline or visit the nearest police station.

The identity of the informant will be treated with strict confidentiality.

This is an ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as further developments unfold.