The Philippine National Police paid tribute to three police personnel who were killed in separate operations in Sultan Kudarat and Cavite.
In Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat, Patrolman Apollo Pagurayan and Patrolman Juril Bullos, both members of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12, were killed on July 7, 2026.
Initial reports showed that the two police officers were traveling along Barangay Tinumiguis when unidentified individuals opened fire on them.
Police said responding units coordinated with other law enforcement agencies and launched follow-up operations to pursue leads and identify those responsible.
In a separate incident in Dasmariñas, Cavite, Police Corporal Anthony John Martineza, a member of the Calabarzon police drug enforcement unit, was killed during an anti-drug operation.
The operation resulted in the arrest of alias “Jeffrey,” 42, who police identified as the subject of the operation.
Authorities said follow-up efforts are continuing to locate other individuals who may have escaped during the encounter.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. honored the fallen personnel, recognizing their dedication to duty and public service.
“Ang kanilang sakripisyo ay mananatiling bahagi ng kasaysayan ng ating organisasyon. They stood firm in the face of danger because they believed in their duty to protect our communities. Sa mga naiwang pamilya ng ating mga bayani, nakikiisa kami sa inyong pagluluksa at patuloy naming ipapakita ang suporta na nararapat para sa inyo,” Nartatez said.
Nartatez said the PNP will continue strengthening its operational capabilities while ensuring that police actions are carried out with discipline, preparedness, and respect for the rule of law.
The PNP said it remains committed to supporting the families of its fallen personnel while pursuing justice and accountability against those responsible.
The police organization said the deaths of Pagurayan, Bullos, and Martineza underscore the risks faced by personnel in law enforcement operations and the duty of the PNP to protect communities.