21-6-2024 (MANILA) Two police officers were injured while responding to a robbery incident in Las Piñas City, prompting high praise from authorities for their unwavering bravery in the line of duty.
According to the Las Piñas City Police, an unidentified male suspect attempted to break into a compound inside Gatchalian Subdivision in Barangay Manuyo Dos around midday on Thursday. The property owner, a retired Navy officer, tried to shoot the suspect with a 9mm pistol, but the suspect managed to seize the weapon and flee the scene.
Responding swiftly to the victim’s report, Lt. Jessie De Leon, PMSg Avelino Lopez, and PMSg Warren Bong Panton, all assigned to the Tactical Motorcycle Riders Unit, pursued the suspect and located him at a store on Marquez Street corner Annalisa Street within the subdivision.
De Leon recounted the harrowing encounter, stating, “When we got out, he suddenly came out and started shooting at us. At the store, he was told, ‘the police are here, get out of here,’ and he confronted us, engaging in a gunfight.”
The operation escalated into a shootout, resulting in the death of the unidentified suspect, who was found in possession of the stolen 9mm pistol. Tragically, Lopez and Panton sustained injuries during the exchange of gunfire and were immediately rushed to Las Piñas City Doctors Hospital for medical treatment.
Las Piñas City Police Chief PCol. Sandro Tafalla acknowledged the gravity of the situation, stating, “Unfortunately, our two police officers were hit. The victim also sustained an initial gunshot wound to the body.”
In a remarkable display of leadership and recognition, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief General Rommel Francisco Marbil personally visited the injured officers in the hospital and awarded them for their bravery. The three officers received the Medalya ng Kagalingan or Medal of Excellence, with Lopez and Panton also receiving the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting or Wounded Personnel Medal.
Marbil commended the officers’ swift response, saying, “When they learned about the incident, they responded in less than an hour. Their quick reaction solved the case in under an hour.”
Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos and Southern Police District Chief PBGen Leon Victor Rosete also joined in recognizing the heroic actions of the officers.
“We commend the heroism of our police officers who quickly responded under the directive of our Chief PNP,” Rosete stated.
Abalos echoed the sentiment, expressing, “I am pleased with the performance of the police… I am here to thank them for their effective police work, resolving the case in less than 24 hours… The most important thing is that we see our police fighting crime.”
