US honors Danao cops for arresting American fugitive

CEBU, Philippines — The Danao City Police Station (DCPS) has earned a commendation from the United States (US) following the arrest of an American fugitive facing criminal charges and declared an undesirable alien by the state.

The station received a Certificate of Commendation from the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service – Overseas Criminal Investigations.

The commendation was formally presented on the afternoon of June 3, 2026, at the Danao City Police Station headquarters in Barangay Poblacion by Thea Amaya, a representative of the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service.

The award honors the station’s vital role in the arrest of 44-year-old Kenneth Allan White, an American national who was declared an undesirable alien due to pending criminal charges in the U.S.

His charges involved threats to publish intimate visual material and attempted aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, as well as immigration violations for overstaying in the Philippines.

Furthermore, the award reportedly recognized the performance, professionalism, and operational effectiveness of the station under the leadership of Police Lt. Henrix P. Bancoleta, Chief of Police, during a joint law enforcement operation conducted on April 28, 2026.

The fugitive's arrest was made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Bureau of Immigration-Fugitive Search Unit, Regional Intelligence Unit 7 (RIU7), the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Cebu Police Provincial Office (PIU-CPPO), and the Danao City Police Station.

The team tracked and apprehended the subject after acting on information relayed by foreign law enforcement authorities on outstanding warrants issued by the Galveston County Sheriff's Office in Texas, USA.

Moreover, the recognition was said to reinforce the growing trust and cooperation between Philippine and American law enforcement agencies in combating transnational crime and ensuring that fugitives are brought to justice regardless of borders.

The Provincial Director of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, PCOL Abubakar Udang Mangelen Jr., hailed the commendation as a testament to the professionalism and competence of Cebu's police force.

He also added that the recognition affirms the capability of Cebu’s police personnel to effectively work alongside national and international law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice and safeguarding communities.

He also commended the operating units for their dedication, vigilance, and commitment to duty.

Meanwhile, the Regional Director of Police Regional Office 7, PBGEN Arnold E. Abad, also emphasized that the commendation reflects the high standards of service and operational excellence being upheld by the Philippine National Police.

The Cebu Police Provincial Office reiterated its commitment to strengthening partnerships with local, national, and international law enforcement agencies in addressing transnational crimes, apprehending wanted persons, and ensuring that Cebu remains a safe and secure place for residents and visitors alike. — Paul Benedict Sariana, CNU Intern, IHM (CEBU NEWS)