The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has strongly condemned the killing and wounding of Philippine National Police (PNP) personnel following an armed encounter with unidentified assailants in Candelaria, Quezon, on 19 December.

Based on initial information received by NAPOLCOM Chief Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan from the Quezon Provincial Police Office, personnel of the 1st Quezon Provincial Mobile Force Company (QPMFC) were conducting mobile patrol operations along a barangay road at Sitio Pulyok, Barangay San Isidro, when they encountered several male individuals near a banana plantation.

During the encounter, the suspects, armed with firearms of unidentified caliber, opened fire on the police officers, prompting them to respond in self-defense. The assailants later fled the scene, taking the firearms used in the attack.

Police Master Sergeant Sonny Caringal, Patrolman Kim Kenneth Averia, and Patrolman Ron Jay Chavez sustained gunshot wounds and were immediately rushed to United Candelaria Doctor’s Hospital for medical treatment. Patrolman Chavez was later declared dead on arrival by attending physician Dr. James Arthur Robles.

Calinisan extended the Commission’s deepest condolences to the family of Patrolman Chavez and expressed full support for the swift recovery of the wounded police personnel.

NAPOLCOM underscored that attacks against law enforcement officers will not be tolerated and called for the immediate identification, arrest, and prosecution of those responsible.

The Commission said it is closely coordinating with the PNP and other concerned authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and the pursuit of justice in accordance with the law.