BACOLOD CITY – Police Senior Master Sgt. Tristan Joseph Chua, who was allegedly shot and killed by a fellow police officer, was laid to rest on Monday morning, Jan. 19, in Sibulan, Negros Oriental.

Chua, 39, was buried at the Sibulan public cemetery following a Mass at San Antonio de Padua Parish.

A 21-gun salute was accorded to him during the interment in honor of his courage, dedication, and faithful service to the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the nation.

In a radio interview, Chua’s wife recalled that she was initially informed by her brother-in-law about a shooting incident but was not immediately told that her husband was critically involved.

She said she remained calm, believing Chua had only sustained minor injuries, and proceeded to the police station. It was only later, after speaking with his colleagues, that she learned of his death.

Chua, a native of Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, had been residing in Sibulan. He is survived by his wife and one child.

He joined the police in June 2008 and served for nearly 18 years. At the time of his death, he was assigned as chief intelligence police non-commissioned officer at the Sibulan Municipal Police Station.

Chua and two other policemen were allegedly shot by Police Staff Sgt. Bonifacio Saycon inside a vehicle in Barangay Tubtubon, Sibulan, on Jan. 9. The incident reportedly occurred following a bar shooting where a woman was shot dead.

Prior to the shootings, Saycon and the officers, along with their police chief, went to a restobar to celebrate the latter’s birthday.

Authorities are investigating the incident, with personal grudges being considered as possible motive.

The Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office paid tribute to Chua as a dedicated police officer, a trusted colleague, and a selfless public servant who devoted his life to the service of the people.

“Though he has departed from our ranks, the values he lived by – integrity, professionalism, and devotion to duty – will continue to inspire the PNP community and all those whose lives he touched. Your service will always be remembered, and your sacrifice will forever be honored,” the Norppo stated.