By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. on Friday lauded three Muntinlupa City police officers for putting their lives on the line to stop an armed robbery suspect and protect the public.
He commended Master Sgt. Alvin Cordero, Staff Sgt. Lloyd Francisco, and Patrolman John Lee Macaraeg for their actions during the Aug. 11 incident along East Service Road in Barangay Sucat.
“I commend these police officers for their courage, composure, and commitment to protecting the public. At the same time, we remind all police personnel to exercise sound judgment and observe proper procedures while ensuring self-protection when dealing with armed and dangerous suspects,” Nartatez said in a statement on Friday.
The three officers responded to a report of a robbery in the area, leading Francisco to pursue the suspect toward a footbridge, where he repeatedly urged him to surrender.
The suspect allegedly pointed a firearm at Francisco, prompting a struggle between them. A gun went off during the confrontation, with a bullet hitting the suspect in the neck.
The suspect was then brought to a hospital by the Barangay Sucat rescue team. Police recovered from him an unlicensed .45-caliber Colt pistol, a magazine, three live rounds of ammunition, and the robbery victim’s cellphone and wallet.
The victim positively identified the suspect as the person who took his bag and belongings.
The suspect later underwent inquest proceedings and faces charges for robbery, illegal possession of firearms, and direct assault.
Nartatez said the incident served as a reminder of the risks police officers face while carrying out their duties.
“Our police officers will continue to uphold their duty to protect lives, maintain peace, and ensure the safety of our communities,” he said.
“We also encourage the public to immediately report crimes through 911 and cooperate with responding authorities,” the PNP chief added. (PNA)
