Two rookie policemen wounded while protecting ballot boxes from a suspected partisan armed group were given awards by the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their “selfless dedication to public service.”
Police Officer 3 Laurio Robino and PO1 Edgar Bolante of the Abra Provincial Police Office were conferred the PNP Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (Wounded Personnel Medal) on Wednesday at simple ceremonies held at the Regional Health Service, Camp Dangwa in La Trinidad, Benguet.
Cordillera Region Police director Chief Superintendent Raul Gonzales pinned the medal on Robino during the ceremony. Bolante, who is still confined at the Regional Health Service, failed to attend the event.
“The PNP gives due recognition to PNP personnel who put their lives at stake in ensuring peace and order. This remarkable feat depicted his selfless dedication to public service, hence bringing prestige to the force,” said Gonzales.
Gonzales said cash incentives were given to the two wounded policemen for their bravery and dedication to duty. He did not reveal how much cash the policemen received.
Robino and Bolante and several election officers were shot and wounded when they were attacked by unidentified armed men on the eve of election day.
The policemen and the poll officers were transporting ballot boxes from the Poblacion in Lagayan, Abra, to the different polling precincts when they were ambushed at Sitio Tamurong, Barangay Pulot in Lagayan.
The two wounded policemen engaged the suspects in a brief gun battle, and the attackers failed to snatch the ballot boxes.
“The PNP guards democracy and it is our performance of duty that helps this country survive political turmoil. Any form of cheating, violence and atrocities will not be tolerated,” Gonzales added.
PNP chief Director General Oscar Calderon praised Robino and Bolante for their commitment and dedication in guarding the ballot boxes. – With Marijoe Yu, Jan Camille Canivel