NATION

PNP chief hails cop who lost arm while subduing armed man

Nartatez praised Miraña and his team for their discipline, citing that the response aligned with directives to protect communities while supporting first responders.

Jing Villamente · Aug 24, 2026, 11:54 PM

POLICE Staff Sgt. Noli Miraña of the San Jose Municipal Police Station receives the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting in recognition of his service and sacrifice in the line of duty. Miraña’s left hand was severed when he was hacked while responding to a disturbance, but surgeons successfully reattached it during an eight-hour operation at the Bicol Medical Center in Camarines Sur. — PHOTOGRAPH courtesy of PRO-5

The Philippine National Police (PNP) honored a police officer on Monday for his heroism after he lost his arm while attempting to subdue a man armed with a bolo who was allegedly experiencing a mental health crisis.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended Staff Sgt. Noli M. Miraña for his courage and restraint during the 22 August incident in Zone 1, Barangay Calalahan, San Jose, Camarines Sur.

Nartatez praised Miraña and his team for their discipline, citing that the response aligned with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla to protect communities while supporting first responders.

Responding to reports of an armed individual, the team led by Miraña initially attempted to communicate with the man to peacefully de-escalate the situation.

However, the suspect charged at the officers, causing Miraña to fall. The man then attacked Miraña with a bolo, inflicting severe injuries to his left hand and face.

Fellow officers intervened immediately, firing their service weapons and striking the suspect in both thighs to stop the attack.

Both Miraña and the suspect received initial medical treatment at Partido District Hospital before being transferred to the Bicol Medical Center.

The PNP confirmed that complete medical and welfare assistance is being provided to the injured officer during his recovery.

Nartatez stated that the incident highlights the unpredictable dangers law enforcement personnel face daily. He reminded officers to prioritize de-escalation when possible but to act decisively when lives are in immediate danger.

Meantime, National Police Commission vice chairperson Rafael Calinisan also commended Miraña’s extraordinary sacrifice, stating that Napolcom will ensure the wounded officer and his family receive all benefits and assistance guaranteed under existing laws.