PNP probing death of 2 Palawan cops, 1 BuCor staff in wake shootout

By Lloyd Caliwan, Philippine News Agency

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. (Philippine National Police/facebook)

MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) is investigating the death of two officers during a law enforcement operation that resulted in an alleged shootout in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan.

Ina news release over the weekend, PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Mimaropa Police Regional Office (PRO-4B) to determine all the circumstances behind the operation that also killed a Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) employee in Zone 13, Barangay Irawan on April 3.

Based on the initial report, the operation stemmed from a mauling incident at a wake, where men drinking attacked two individuals, who then sought help from the police.

When the officers arrived, tensions rose during questioning, culminating in a brief gunfight around 10:30 p.m.

In a statement Saturday, PRO-4B Director Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua Jr. said Col. Dennis Ladub De Leon has been designated Acting Director of the Puerto Princesa City Police Office (PPCPO), replacing Col. Cristine Meris Tabdi, “to ensure focused leadership and supervision in support of ongoing operations and the investigation.”

The PPCPO said it will “ensure strong case build-up and intensify operations to identify, locate, and apprehend the suspect/s.”

The PPCPO said investigative efforts include “gathering testimonies from witnesses, coordinating with local residents, collecting and reviewing closed-circuit television footage from the vicinity, and conducting a meticulous crime scene examination.”

Nartatez reminded all officers to exercise vigilance at all times while responding to any call for assistance and in conducting law enforcement operations.

“The loss of our brave officers is a tragic reminder of the risks our men and women in uniform face every day. We honor their service and courage, and we remain committed to protecting our communities,” he said.

“We should always be on guard and careful. Stay vigilant, protect each other, and serve the community with utmost dedication.”

Nartatez assured residents of intensified police visibility and intelligence operations throughout Palawan to prevent any escalation.

“The situation remains under control. I assure the public that the PNP is working non-stop to secure our communities. Do not fear, because your police force is on high alert,” he said.

“We urge the public to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to immediately coordinate with Police Station 2 through (0927) 162-4065, or contact the Puerto Princesa City Police Office via (0977) 855-7732,” the PPCPO posted on Facebook.

Badua said they will establish the truth “through an objective and evidence-based process.”

The PNP committed to shoulder all burial and funeral expenses of the slain officers.

“We will also provide comprehensive financial assistance and counseling for the families. Their sacrifice will not be in vain,” Nartatez said.