Slain La Castellana cop laid to rest

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — Family, friends and colleagues paid their final respects to Police Master Sgt. Davy Carampatana as he was laid to rest at a public cemetery in his hometown of Isabela, Negros Occidental, on Sunday.

Police Maj. Romulo Gepilango V, chief of the La Castellana Municipal Police Station, led the solemn tribute as police accorded Carampatana full honors during his interment.

The La Castellana police said the final bugle call and ceremonial gun salute symbolized not only the end of a noble life dedicated to public service but also the enduring legacy left by Carampatana, a public servant whose life was defined by courage, integrity and commitment to duty.

“Though his physical presence may no longer be with us, his legacy of honor, loyalty, and faithful service will continue to live on in the hearts of those he touched and inspired,” the La Castellana police said.

Carampatana was allegedly stabbed to death by a 41-year-old suspected drug pusher who reportedly resisted arrest during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Talaptap, La Castellana, on May 12.

Two other police officers, including a deputy chief, were also injured after the suspect’s 68-year-old mother allegedly joined the attack.

His colleagues considered him a hero for his selflessness, bravery, compassion and dedication to the people he served.

The 38-year-old police officer served in the police force for about 16 years.

He is survived by his wife and three daughters.

Meanwhile, Police Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño, acting regional director of the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region, paid his respects to Police Lt. Col. Romeo Vargas, chief of the City Administrative and Resource Management Unit, during a visit to his wake on May 22 at the Bacolod City Police Office Chapel in Barangay Singcang-Airport here.

Cardiño paid tribute to Vargas’ years of public service, highlighting his professionalism, strong sense of duty and commitment to the mission of the Philippine National Police.

He also conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and sympathy over the loss of a respected officer and colleague in the service.

Cardiño recognized Vargas as a valued member of the organization whose contributions helped strengthen administrative and operational support within his unit.

PRO-NIR said Vargas was remembered by his peers as a disciplined, reliable and hardworking officer who consistently performed his duties with integrity, humility and quiet dedication.

His legacy reflects a life of service marked by commitment and respect for the responsibilities entrusted to him.

The regional office mourned his passing and honored his memory as a public servant who served with dignity and honor.

Vargas was found dead by his daughter with a gunshot wound to the head inside his bedroom in Barangay Handumanan here on May 19.

Police said an investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.