A 29-year-old man was allegedly murdered and his body burned inside his vehicle in Guiguinto, Bulacan, in what police believe was a crime of passion driven by jealousy, RH Edniel Parossa reported.
The victim's charred remains were discovered inside a burned-out car on August 4.
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said two suspects have already been arrested, while authorities have identified two alleged masterminds—a live-in couple—who remain at large.
According to Police Regional Office 3 Director Police Brigadier General Jess Mendez, the woman initially targeted the victim in an alleged extortion scheme but later developed a romantic relationship with him.
Investigators said the woman's live-in partner allegedly became jealous upon learning of the relationship and conspired with two accomplices to carry out the killing.
Based on the police investigation, the victim met the woman at a farm, where the two hired suspects allegedly attacked him, struck him on the head, placed him inside the trunk of his vehicle, and later set the car on fire before abandoning it.
The two arrested suspects are set to face charges of murder and destructive arson.
Meanwhile, authorities said the alleged masterminds will also be charged once arrested as the manhunt against the live-in couple continues.
The PNP said the investigation remains ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the killing and ensure that all those responsible are brought to justice.
