An off-duty police officer in Apayao earned praise after helping bring a sick child to the hospital when the family could not find transportation.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said Police Master Sergeant Dick Dandan of the Kabugao Municipal Police Station was on his way to work on May 16 when he noticed a parent carrying an ill child along the roadside in Barangay Poblacion, Kabugao, Apayao.
According to police reports, the family was desperately trying to find a vehicle that could take the child to a hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Instead of continuing his trip, Dandan stopped to check on the situation. After learning that the child needed immediate medical attention at Conner District Hospital and that the family had no available transportation, the police officer voluntarily used his personal vehicle to bring them to the hospital.
The child was later reported to be in stable and safe condition after receiving prompt medical care.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the officer’s actions, saying such acts of compassion strengthen public trust in the police force.
“What PMSgt. Dandan proves that a police officer is always ready to help, whether on duty or not. This is the kind of service we want to see more from our police personnel,” Nartatez said.
He added that even simple acts of kindness can leave a lasting impact on communities.
“Every time we are able to help a citizen, we bring the public closer to the PNP. What may seem small to others means a great deal to a parent and a child in need,” the police chief said.
The PNP said it continues to promote responsive and humane public service under its “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman” program.