Authorities have arrested a man accused of violently robbing a 62-year-old Japanese national last Saturday, January 24, 2026, in Barangay San Dionisio. The suspect, a local pineapple vendor, was apprehended near his residence following reports from concerned citizens.

Police recovered the victim’s passport and other belongings, but the stolen cash—₱30,000 and 30,000 yen (around ₱11,500)—was not retrieved. The suspect is scheduled to be presented at the Southern Police District on Tuesday morning.

The incident reportedly occurred around 11 a.m. while the victim was bird-watching in a wetland park area. A video that circulated online showed the victim being knocked down as the suspect attempted to snatch his bag, leaving him bloodied and injured.

Barangay officials confirmed that the victim suffered a skull fracture, a split ear that required stitches, and visible facial bruises. Authorities also faced communication challenges, as the Japanese national’s English proficiency was limited, making immediate assistance more difficult.

The arrest came after a concerned citizen spotted the injured foreigner and alerted authorities. Police said the apprehension of the suspect was crucial in ensuring accountability and sending a message against violent crimes targeting foreign visitors in the city.