A fallen police officer in Bacolod City was honored by the Philippine National Police (PNP), as its top officials paid their respects and reaffirmed support for his family following his death in a buy-bust operation.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., along with Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, visited the wake of Police Master Sgt. Romulo Galvez, a veteran officer with 18 years of service, to personally extend condolences to his loved ones.
Galvez was killed during an anti-illegal drugs operation in Barangay Singcang Airport on April 9 after he was shot in the thigh by a suspect identified as Ronilo Panuncial, 32. The suspect was arrested at the scene and later charged.
The officer was declared dead due to hypovolemic shock caused by a gunshot wound.
Nartatez said the visit was meant to show solidarity within the police force and reaffirm support for personnel and their families.
“We honor PMSgt. Galvez not only for his courage in the line of duty but for his commitment to protect our communities,” he said. “Hindi namin pababayaan ang kanyang pamilya. His sacrifice strengthens our resolve to carry out our mission with greater discipline, unity, and care for every police officer on the ground.”
He added that while the organization continues to grieve, it remains committed to sustaining its anti-drug campaign and improving safety measures for personnel in high-risk operations.
“While we mourn, we remain committed. The sacrifice of our colleagues will not be in vain,” Nartatez said. “We continue to honor their bravery by doing our duty better and more safely.”
Following the incident, Nartatez ordered a review of operational protocols for buy-bust operations to strengthen safeguards for police personnel.
“May mga adjustments na ipapatupad to better protect our personnel,” he said. “Lessons learned here will be immediately cascaded nationwide because safety of our personnel is non-negotiable. We will enhance backup, equipment, and coordination.”
The slain officer will be laid to rest on April 26 at Forest Lake Memorial Park in Barangay Sum-ag, Bacolod City.
The PNP also extended financial assistance to Galvez’s wife, Janice, with Nartatez pledging continued support in the coming days.