Elderly man helps pay for heroic cop’s hospital bill

A senior citizen gave P5,000 to help pay for the medical expenses of a policeman who almost lost his life fighting three robbers who held up a taxi driver in Quiapo, Manila two weeks ago.

Arthur Precilla went to Manila police headquarters and handed the amount to Manila Police District director (MPD) Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales after reading about the exploits of Senior Police Officer 4 Antonio Espadero in the other day’s issue of The STAR.

Precilla told Rosales he was overwhelmed by the bravery of Espadero, who risked his own life to respond to a call of duty.

“For me he (Espadero) is the real hero of our time,” Precilla said, showing Rosales his senior citizen’s card. “A policeman like Espadero should be emulated by other law enforcers.”

Rosales said Espadero will be honored in Monday’s flag-raising ceremony at Manila police headquarters. He invited Precilla to witness the event and personally hand his financial assistance to Espadero during the ceremony.

Rosales said the Manila police is getting rid of scalawags within its ranks.

“I give credit to the men and women of the MPD who have shown exceptional accomplishment in the performance of their duties,” he said.

Philippine National Police chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. has ordered Espadero promoted to the rank of inspector upon hearing of his exploits.

Sta.  Cruz police station chief Superintendent Romulo Sapitula said it was the fourth time Espadero, who is under his command, figured in a near-death encounter.

Espadero was always in the “right place at the right time,” he said.