Negros Oriental police mourn death of Sibulan cop chief, 2 colleagues
BACOLOD CITY – The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office condemned the senseless act of violence that killed a police chief and two police personnel in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan, Negros Oriental on Friday, Jan. 9.
A police response resulted in a shooting incident that killed Police Capt. Jose Edrohil Cimafranca, Sibulan police chief, and Police Senior Master Sgt. Tristan Chua and Police Patrolman Rey Albert Temblor.
The suspect, Police Staff Sgt. Bonifacio Saycon, allegedly killed a woman in a restobar prior to the fatal shooting of the three policemen.
The circumstances surrounding these incidents are under investigation.
In a statement posted on social media, Police Col. Criscente Tiguelo, Negros Oriental police director, said they stand united with the families, loved ones, and the entire police community in grief and solidarity, as they mourned the tragic loss of these personnel.
"We honor their courage and dedication in the service of peace and public safety," he said, adding that their service will never be forgotten and will continue to inspire their commitment to duty.
Police vowed that justice must prevail and remain steadfast in upholding the rule of law and ensuring accountability.
San Jose, Negros Oriental Mayor Mel Nick Logronio also mourned the loss of Cimafranca who was also a municipal police chief.
"I received the painful news that our former police chief, Chief Cimafranca, was shot and killed in Sibulan, alongside two of his fellow officers. It is a loss that words can barely hold," Logronio stated on social media.
He said Cimafranca was not only a public servant but also a man of principle, an officer who wore his badge with honor and carried his responsibilities with quiet strength.
"He was honest, disciplined, and deeply committed to the safety of our people. He believed in doing what was right, even when it was difficult, and he led by example every single day he served," the mayor said.
Saycon surrendered to the police and will face appropriate charges. Investigation is ongoing.