Napolcom slams NPA for killing cop, civilian

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The National Police Commission (Napolcom) strongly condemned the recent deadly attacks by the New People’s Army (NPA) that claimed the lives of a police officer and a civilian in Calatrava, Negros Occidental.

Napolcom Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan said in a statement that the “senseless act of violence” perpetrated by the NPA is a direct assault on peace, stability, and the rule of law.

Calinisan extended his sympathies to the families of Police Senior Master Sgt. (PSMS) Rommel Aguilar of the 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company (NOCPMFC) and civilian Mando Ugdiman, assuring them of support during this difficult time.

He emphasized that attacking police officers performing their duty and endangering innocent civilians has no place in a society striving for genuine order and development.

He also expressed full support for the Philippine National Police (PNP) in its intensified pursuit operations and case buildup to ensure that those responsible are held fully accountable.

“Acts of terrorism and lawlessness will never weaken our resolve to defend peace, justice, and the well-being of our communities,” Napolcom stated.

Aguilar and his team were conducting a police operation against a wanted person in Barangay Menchaca when they engaged in a brief firefight with six unidentified armed men.

Aguilar became separated from his colleagues while they were retreating through hostile terrain.

He was found dead in Barangay Laga-an a few hours later.

Prior to this, the armed men also gunned down Ugdiman in Barangay Dolis, suspecting him of being a military asset.

The NPA has since claimed responsibility for both killings in a statement.

Authorities continue to intensify their investigation to identify and apprehend the perpetrators and bring justice to the victims.