LSN News › Philippines

World · Philippines Bureau

Church Denies Suspect in Oriental Mindoro Student Murder is Pastor

Authorities have arrested a prime suspect in the fatal killing of a nursing student discovered at a vacant lot in Calapan City over the weekend. The suspect, initially believed to be a church pastor, voluntarily surrendered to police, though the religious institution has since denied any affiliation.

LSN Philippines · 9 November 2026

Church Denies Suspect in Oriental Mindoro Student Murder is Pastor

CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Police have taken into custody the primary suspect in the death of a nursing student found at an abandoned site in Calapan City on the weekend, officials confirmed Monday. The suspect, a 26-year-old man, presented himself to responding officers and was placed under police custody for questioning.

The suspect was initially identified as a church pastor based on preliminary reports. However, the religious organization in question has since issued a statement denying that the individual holds any pastoral position within their institution, according to official statements.

The nursing student's body was discovered at the vacant lot, prompting authorities to launch an immediate investigation. Details surrounding the circumstances of the death remain under investigation as police continue gathering evidence and statements related to the case.

The voluntary surrender by the suspect has expedited the investigation process, though authorities have not yet disclosed additional information regarding potential motives or the relationship between the suspect and the victim. The case continues to be processed through proper legal channels.