‘SAVED BY GLOCK’: Cop survives shooting in Iloilo traffic stop incident

A police officer in Tigbauan, Iloilo survived a shooting incident after a traffic stop escalated into violence on the evening of Aug. 21, authorities reported.

The victim was identified as Police Staff Sergeant Jeffrey Biña Talaver, 39, a member of the Philippine National Police (PNP) assigned to the Tigbauan Municipal Police Station and a resident of Brgy. Atabayan, Tigbauan.

According to the police report, the incident occurred at around 7:45 p.m. in Brgy. 2, Poblacion, Tigbauan, when Talaver was enforcing municipal traffic regulations.

He attempted to flag down a motorcycle carrying three men—all without helmets—in violation of local ordinances.

Instead of stopping, the suspect sped away, prompting the officer to pursue them.

When they reached Brgy. 2, Poblacion, the suspect abruptly stopped his motorcycle.

As Talaver approached, the suspect allegedly pulled out a short firearm and opened fire, hitting the officer’s holster and service pistol.

Talaver tried to return fire, but his pistol malfunctioned after the bullet shattered its trigger mechanism.

Despite the close encounter, Talaver escaped injury.

The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Vincent Talaman Tabasa of Brgy. Dorong-an, Tigbauan, fled the scene along with his two back riders.

Tabasa is reportedly jobless and remains at large as of press time.

Police said a hot pursuit operation is underway to apprehend the suspect and his companions.

Authorities praised the quick reflexes and restraint of PSSg Talaver, noting the incident underscores the dangers faced by frontline law enforcement officers, even in routine traffic enforcement.

Residents are urged to report any sightings of the suspect to local authorities to aid the ongoing manhunt.