An off-duty police officer from the Angadanan Police Station in Isabela was feted for responding to a fire that destroyed a vehicle inside a gas station in Barangay Alibagu, Ilagan City, Isabela, on Monday, April 20.
Police Master Sgt. Kennedy Tungpalan and his wife were on their way home from the Isabela Police Provincial Office when he noticed a commotion.
The off-duty lawman stopped to assess the situation and saw the vehicle gradually being engulfed in flames. He grabbed a fire extinguisher from the station and put out the fire before it could spread and cause a bigger disaster.
The driver said he did not realize that his vehicle was on fire while entering the gas station.
The gas station thanked Tungpalan for his immediate response that prevented a possible tragedy.
Police Regional Office-2 Director Police Brig. Gen Antonio P. Marallag Jr. praised Tungpalan's response.
“This incident shows the dedication and readiness of police personnel in ensuring community safety and further strengthens public trust in their service,” Marallag said.