Woman Arrested in Kalibo for Stealing Tuna, Says Fish Was Shared w/ Neighbors

A woman was arrested in Kalibo after allegedly stealing around five kilos of yellowfin tuna from a local market stall.

On early Wednesday morning (April 8, 2026), the incident happened at Shopping C. Laserna in Poblacion, where the fish vendor later reported the missing items.

The suspect, known as Rowena, is of legal age and lives near the complainant. According to the vendor, the woman had been seen passing by the stall several times in the past. There were also instances when she asked for money and was often noticed to be under the influence of alcohol.

CCTV footage helped authorities identify the suspect. The video showed a woman wearing a red shirt, black pants, and red slippers, carefully taking the fish and placing them inside a blue plastic bag.

The footage clearly captured her actions, which later became an evidence in the case.

Police officers from the Kalibo Municipal Police Station quickly responded and went to the suspect’s home. Upon arrival, they confirmed that she matched the person seen in the CCTV footage.

The suspect was even wearing the same clothes recorded in the video, making it easier for authorities to verify her identity.

At first, the suspect denied the accusation. However, after being shown the CCTV recording, she eventually admitted to taking the fish. She explained that she had already given the tuna to her neighbors, who cooked and ate it.

While some felt upset over the theft, others expressed concern about the situation that may have led to her actions. Still, authorities reminded the public that taking something without permission is a serious offense.

The woman is now facing a theft charge as the investigation continues.

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