Long-running ABS-CBN current affairs program “SOCO: Scene of the Crime Operatives” wraps up its anniversary month this Saturday (November 26) by taking its viewers back to 2002, when the dangerous Waray-Ilonggo group robbed a jewelry store and engaged authorities in a shootout.
In broad daylight, suspects wearing Army uniforms and carrying firearms trooped to a jewelry shop in Bulacan, with unsuspecting passers-by thinking they were just soldiers setting up a checkpoint.
Before they could leave with their loot, policemen deployed in the area responded and engaged them in a gunfight that ended with four casualties. Though the group of 13 robbers were able to escape, they were all caught a few weeks after, thanks to the prompt investigation by the police. They were all charged with robbery and homicide.
This is the fourth anniversary episode of the program, which has taken part in seeking and attaining justice for Filipinos families in the past 11 years. Through bringing to life the stories behind the crimes, the show has helped parents, daughters, sons, wives, husbands, and relatives move on, while also educating the general public on how to prevent crime from happening to their own loved ones.
Leading the way in this crusade for justice is SOCO anchor Gus Abelgas, an icon in crime news reporting in the Philippines.
“Crimes happen 24/7, walang oras na pinipili. At first, we just did this to inform the public, but as time went on, people eventually started coming to me in the program, asking for help, and I find out that they are cold cases, so I said, why not?” said Abelgas, who also shared that the program has helped convict several criminals.
A first of its kind TV program based on real-life police investigation, “SOCO” has evolved into a docu-drama program and inspired other shows to take the same route. Its consistent high rating on its timeslot and the numerous awards it has received are also indication of the support and appreciation of Filipinos for the long-running show.
Catch “SOCO: Scene of the Crime Operatives” hosted by Gus Abelgas every Saturday after “Ipaglaban Mo” on ABS-CBN. You may also watch it on www.iwantv.com.ph. Follow “SOCOtv” on Facebook and Twitter for updates on the show.
