Tacloban City—Two police officers who were killed in a recent landmine explosion in Las Navas, Northern Samar were on Thursday conferred medals of heroism.
The newest “heroes” were Patrolmen Harvie Lovino and Rico Borja, both members of the 1st Northern Samar Provincial Mobile Force Company (NSPMFC).
“We salute them for putting their lives on the line so that our community will be safe. We shall honor their commitment, service, and dedication,” said Brig. Gen. Bernard Banac, director of the Police Regional Office in Eastern Visayas.
“I am here to share your pain. I know that this is a painful time for you, but your loved ones died for a noble cause. We share your grief as we too, have lost dedicated and loyal comrades,” Banac told the families of the slain police operatives.
Banac also handed over financial aid to the families even as he assured them of the benefits and entitlements from the government.
The two policemen were part of a community support program (CSP) team when they were hit by the anti-personnel mine from suspected communist rebel groups on April 4.
Banac and Northern Samar Police Provincial Office Director Col. Alfredo Tadefa and 1st NSPMFC Commander Lt. Col. Edwin Oloan Jr. urged all policemen in the region to “strengthen their resolve in the fight against insurgency and terrorism, and let the memories of their fallen comrades inspire them to continue to do good for the country and the people.”
Another policeman, Patrolman Leandro Luciano Bulosan, was awarded the “Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting,” as well as financial assistance.
The three other personnel of CSP team who were injured in the blast were Cpl. Arvin Papong, Pfc. Whilydel Jic Rodona, and Pfc. Wilmer Del Monte, all of the Army.
“We condemn the use by these communist terrorist groups of inhumane and barbaric improvised explosive devices which do not discriminate between civilians and armed personnel,” said the Northern Samar Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict.
“Patrolman Lovino, from San Isidro, and Patroman Borja, a Catarmanon, did not deserve to die while in the performance of their duty, as no Filipino should ever be subjected to this gruesome death especially when one is serving his people and country,” the task force stressed.