BACOLOD City — A late-night anti-drug operation in in this city turned deadly on April 9 after an undercover police operative was fatally shot by a suspect, underscoring the risks faced by law enforcers on the frontlines of the government’s anti-narcotics campaign.
Police Master Sgt. Romulo Galvez, a member of the Station Drug Enforcement Team of Police Station 9 under the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), was conducting a buy-bust operation along Alijis Road in Barangay Sincang when the suspect, a 32-year-old man, allegedly opened fire without warning.
Galvez sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh. He was rushed to Bacolod Adventist Medical Center but later died at 12:08 a.m. on April 10.
The Police Regional Office–Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) said the cause of death was hypovolemic shock resulting from the gunshot wound.
The suspect was immediately subdued and taken into custody.
Authorities recovered several sachets of suspected marijuana worth around P48,000, a marked P500 bill used in the operation, and a caliber .45 pistol loaded with ammunition.
Charges for violations of Republic Act 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002), as well as murder and illegal possession of firearms, were being prepared against the suspect.
PRO-NIR director Brig. Gen. Arnold Thomas C. Ibay expressed grief over the loss, describing Galvez’s death as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by police personnel.
“This is a sad day. We mourn the loss of Galvez, who gave his life in the line of duty. His courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” Ibay said.
He also assured the public that authorities would pursue justice swiftly while extending full support to the slain officer’s family.
The Bacolod City Police Office, in a statement on April 10, said Mayor Greg Gasataya has extended financial assistance to Galvez’s family.
The mayor visited the BCPO headquarters and met with officer-in-charge Col. Eugene Rebadomia to honor the fallen officer’s service. They later proceeded to the family’s residence to personally convey condolences and provide support.
Galvez is remembered for his dedication and sacrifice in serving both law enforcement and the community, the BCPO said, as it also expressed gratitude to the city government for its immediate assistance to the bereaved family./PN
