BACOLOD City — The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has strongly condemned the brutal attack in Calatrava, Negros Occidental, which claimed the lives of a police officer and a civilian.
On December 7, the first attack occurred around 7:50 a.m. in Sitio Tagda, Barangay Dolis, where a 58-year-old man was shot twice in the head by six unidentified armed men while preparing for Sunday mass. Responding teams led by Calatrava Police Chief Captain Jesus Alba immediately proceeded to the remote site.
Later at 10:50 a.m., troops of the 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company (NOPMFC) encountered armed suspects in Barangay Menchaca while serving a warrant, triggering a brief firefight. Police Senior Master Sergeant (PSMS) Rommel Aguilar went missing during the encounter.
The assault, believed to have been carried out by suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA), has been described as a grave affront to peace and public order.
In a public statement, NAPOLCOM Chief Commissioner Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan denounced the incident as a “senseless act of violence” and stressed that targeting law enforcers while endangering civilians has no place in a society striving for stability and development. He said the attack was not only an assault on the victims but also a direct challenge to the rule of law and collective efforts to maintain peace in the region.
Commissioner Calinisan extended his deepest sympathies to the families of PSMS Aguilar and the civilian victim, Ugdiman, assuring them that the commission stands with them in their time of loss. He emphasized that their sacrifices will not be forgotten and reiterated NAPOLCOM’s commitment to protecting police personnel on the ground.
He also expressed full support for the Philippine National Police (PNP), under Acting PNP Chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., as authorities intensify pursuit operations and strengthen case buildup against those responsible. Calinisan affirmed that justice must be swiftly and decisively pursued to restore peace and deter further acts of aggression.
The NAPOLCOM chief highlighted the agency’s continuing mandate to enhance police operations, reinforce internal discipline, and uphold public safety. He said the commission remains dedicated to equipping and empowering the police force as they confront threats posed by lawless elements.
NAPOLCOM further vowed that acts of terrorism and violence will not weaken its resolve. Instead, the incident strengthens the commission’s determination to defend peace and justice and protect communities from groups seeking to undermine national security.
As investigations and pursuit efforts continue, NAPOLCOM called on the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities. The commission expressed confidence that, with unified efforts, those behind the attack will be brought to justice and peace in Calatrava will be restored./PN
