The Drug Enforcement Group of the Philippine National Police (PDEG) has extended financial and other assistance to the families of two of its personnel, including a female rookie cop, who died in a gun battle with a local syndicate in Sultan Kudarat town in Maguindanao on Nov. 15.
PDEG director Brig. Gen Eleazar Matta said the operation was targeting a local drug syndicate leader but it went awry and led to the clash. Two suspects were arrested during the operation while a kilo of shabu worth P6.8 million was confiscated.
In honoring his fallen men, Matta led the transportation of the remains of Patrolwoman Roselyn Bulias to her hometown in Tawi-Tawi. The official also met with her family and extended the financial and burial assistance.
Matta also visited the wake of Police Corporal Kurt Sipin, the other fatality in the police operation in Libungan, South Cotabato to ensure that all burial arrangements were in order and to provide additional support to his grieving family.
He also visited the two other wounded cops, Patrolman Jonel Ramos, who remains in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) with critical injuries sustained during the same operation, and Patrolman Eddie Sugarol.
Matta assured their relatives of medical and other financial assistance until they fully recovered.
"The sacrifice of these brave men and women reflects the true spirit of service and dedication to our nation. We mourn the loss of our heroes but stand united in our mission to continue the fight against illegal drugs. Justice will be served, and the PNP will provide unwavering support to the families of our fallen comrades," said Matta.