Police official injured in alleged self-harm incident

By Jennifer P. Rendon

TRIGGER WARNING: SELF HARM

A police lieutenant colonel aged 41 is receiving medical care following an incident that resulted in self-inflicted wounds. The occurrence was reported in San Jose, Antique, at approximately 9:30 p.m. on April 3.

The officer, who is based in Metro Manila and currently single, is undergoing schooling and has been temporarily detailed to the Regional Personnel Holding and Accounting Unit (RPHAU) at the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) in Camp Delgado, Iloilo City.

The San Jose Municipal Police Station was alerted by a citizen about erratic behavior from an individual in a local residence. The individual, later identified as the aforementioned police officer, was discovered with blood on various parts of his body.

After the police arrived, he exited his room, walked a few steps, and then collapsed. He remained conscious while being transported to Angel Salazar Memorial General Hospital.

Allegedly, the officer used a butcher knife to inflict wounds on his leg and hands, which resulted in injuries including fractures requiring surgical attention. He also sustained burn injuries on his head and hands, as well as a hematoma.

He had reportedly abstained from food for three days before the incident but attended a Zoom class the day prior. Witnesses described his speech as incoherent.

Sources suggest depression may have played a role in his actions, although it’s unclear if this was connected to rumored participation in treasure hunting.