The lawyer representing the main suspects in the killing of a Quezon City policewoman and her eight-year-old son withdrew from the case on Tuesday, forcing prosecutors to postpone a preliminary investigation that has gripped the Philippines and reverberated through law enforcement ranks.
Police Senior Master Sergeant Diane Marie Mollenido and her son, John Ysmael Mollenido, were killed following what authorities described as a botched car sale transaction on January 16, 2026. Their bodies were later discovered dumped in separate provinces north of Metro Manila, a grim trail that has intensified public scrutiny over informal vehicle sales and personal safety.
Preliminary Probe Reset After Counsel Withdrawal
The preliminary investigation into charges against Pia Panganiban and Christian Panganiban, identified by police as the primary suspects, was scheduled for the morning of February 11 before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office. It did not proceed.
“Kanina nga pong umaga, February 11, naka-schedule po yung preliminary investigation noong suspects dito sa Mollenido case. However, hindi po ito natuloy dahil nag-withdraw po yung counsel nila,” said Major Jennifer Gannaban, spokesperson for the Quezon City Police District (QCPD).
The hearing has been rescheduled to February 16, 2026. The suspect couple has since sought representation from the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO).
“Kaya nag-avail po ng [Public Attorney’s Office] lawyer itong mag-asawang suspect na ito,” Gannaban added.
Charges Filed: Robbery With Homicide, Theft, Obstruction
Prosecutors have filed two counts of robbery with homicide and theft against the Panganiban couple and an alleged accomplice, Gil Dy, described by police as a domestic worker. The complaints were lodged before the Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office under provisions of the Revised Penal Code covering robbery with homicide (Articles 293–294) and theft (Article 308).
An additional charge of obstruction of justice was previously filed against Diane Mollenido’s ex-husband, Police Senior Master Sergeant John Mollenido, who had been considered a person of interest. The victim’s family withdrew the complaint on February 5, citing insufficient evidence. Authorities have since indicated that he has been cleared of involvement.
Bodies Found Days Apart in Bulacan and Tarlac
The case unfolded over nearly two weeks in January.
- January 16: The fatal encounter allegedly stemming from a car sale transaction occurred in Quezon City.
- January 24: Diane Marie Mollenido’s body was found along Pulilan Bypass Road in Barangay Dulong Malabon, Pulilan, Bulacan. Police said she had sustained a gunshot wound to the head.
- January 29: The body of eight-year-old John Ysmael was discovered at a calamansi farm along a farm-to-market road in Barangay Maluid, Victoria, Tarlac.
- January 30: Pia and Christian Panganiban, along with Gil Dy, were arrested in Quezon City.
- February 2: Christian Panganiban’s sister surrendered to authorities.
The separation of the bodies across provincial lines has complicated the emotional and legal landscape of the case, though jurisdiction remains centered in Metro Manila.
Firearms and Ammunition Seized
Following the surrender of Christian Panganiban’s sister, investigators recovered weapons and ammunition from the residence of Christian’s mother.
Among the items seized were a .45 caliber pistol with an unloaded magazine, a pocket gun with magazine, and 55 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition.
“Following the surrender of Christian’s sister, she disclosed that the firearms were located there,” Gannaban said.
Authorities continue to determine whether the recovered firearms were used in the killings.
A Crime Reflecting Broader Public Risk
At its core, the case underscores the dangers embedded in informal second-hand vehicle transactions, a common practice among Filipinos seeking more affordable transport options. For many families, such deals are a pathway to mobility. In this instance, police allege, it became a gateway to violence.
The killings have also struck at the morale of the Philippine National Police. Diane Marie Mollenido was a serving officer whose death — alongside that of her young son — has reverberated among rank-and-file personnel. The case has exposed the vulnerability of officers and their families beyond the badge.
Meanwhile, QCPD officials have urged restraint as the legal process unfolds. The postponement of the preliminary investigation resets but does not stall the proceedings. Prosecutors are expected to hear the respondents’ submissions once new counsel formally enters appearance.
As the February 16 hearing approaches, the case proceeds from shock toward adjudication — a legal path that, for the families involved and for a community shaken by the crime, may prove long and exacting.
