PNP to recognize 15 cops for repelling rebels

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police said on Tuesday it will recognize and give awards to the 15 policemen who repelled around 100 communist rebels in Cotabato last week.

The police officers were cited for their courage and gallantry in action during an encounter with more or less 100  gunmen believed to be members of the New People’s Army who staged an attack at President Roxas Municipal Police Station last May 20.

PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima will award the Medal of Bravery (Medalya ng Katapangan) to cops,  led by President Roxas town police chief, Senior Inspector Bernabe Rubio.

Rubio's men, who will also receive the same recognition, are the following :

Police Inspector Sherwin Panaguiton
Senior Police Officer 4 Arnold Nadela
Senior Police Officer 3 Larry Gregorio
Senior Police Officer 2 Isidro Guirhem
Senior Police Officer 1 Marivic Pedrola
Police Officer 3 Julius Dagpin
Police Officer 3 Michael Angelo Cariño
Police Officer 3 Rafael Carbon
Police Officer 2 Dennis Soledad
Police Officer 1 Raymund Niño Nuevo
Police Officer 1 Razel Genzola
Police Officer 1 Job Franklin Santos
Police Officer 1 Johnny Boy Lomotos
Police Officer 1 Roy Angelo Rasonabe

Rubio will also receive the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (PNP Wounded Medal) issued by Police Regional Office 12 for being wounded in the firefight.

Purisima will also turn over a brand new KIA 4x4 troop carrier, assault rifles and replenishment ammunition and financial support to the President Roxas Municipal Police Station.

During the attack, the President Roxas policemen engaged the rebels in firefight, killing five and wounding several others.