PNP: 2 cops killed in alleged Samar ambush by Reds

The number of fatalities in an ambush believed perpetrated by communist rebels in Las Navas, Northern Samar has increased to two, the Philippine National Police said on Wednesday.

At a press conference, PNP spokesperson Police Colonel Jean Fajardo identified the recent fatality as Patrolman Rico Borja, who was initially reported as injured.

“May malungkot po tayong update dyan. Yung isa po nating wounded in action ay namatay po kaninang madaling araw (We have a sad update. One of the wounded in action passed away this early morning),” she said.

The PNP said police and military personnel on Tuesday fell victims to an improvised explosive device (IED) attack in Barangay San Miguel.

Earlier, the the PNP identified the first fatality as Patrolman Havie Lovino.

According to the police, PNP Retooled Community Support Program team members were on their way to their station after receiving their booster shot against COVID-19 when the incident happened.

Wounded in the attack were three members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines identified as Corporal Arvin Papong, Private First Class Whilydel Jic Rodona, and Private First Class Wilmer Del Monte, who were brought to the hospital for treatment.

A province-wide pursuit operation is being conducted against perpetrators, the PNP said.

All adjacent police stations were directed to set up a checkpoint to capture the attackers. —LBG, GMA News