NCRPO cites 2 cops for fighting off robbers

MANILA, Philippines - Two policemen who fought off robbers in Caloocan City and Manila were given medals yesterday by the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) for acts of gallantry beyond the call of duty.

San Juan City’s Police Officer 3 Rodel Bonagua and SPO1 Emmanuel Villena of Manila received the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (PNP Wounded Personnel Medal) during the NCRPO’s Badge of Honor ceremonies at the NCRPO headquarters in Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City.

Despite being hit in the left shoulder and left side of his head, Bonagua was able to fire back and engage a group of robbery suspects on Oct. 20 along BF Homes in Caloocan City.

Villena of the MPD Police Station 3 in Sta. Cruz was wounded in both thighs when he foiled a robbery in a Dapitan-bound public utility jeepney. He was off-duty at that time.

Bonagua and Villena are also being recommended for meritorious promotion to the next higher rank.

Police officers who received the Medalya ng Kagalingan are Senior Inspector Ananias Endraca of the Parañaque City police; Inspector Edwin Fuertes, SPO2 Jerryzaldy Tugbo and PO1 Orlie Zinampan of the Quezon City Police District; PO2 Leo Melindo of the Makati City police; PO2 Jay Niño Taduran, Las Piñas City police; and PO1 Michael Gere Domingo of the Manila Police District.

Director Danilo Abarzosa, head of the Philippine National Police’s directorate for human resource and doctrine development, pinned the medals on the awardees.

NCRPO director Chief Superintendent Nicanor Bartolome said the NCRPO is quick to reward dedicated and committed police personnel and to punish erring ones.