Cop wounded in San Fernando shootout feted

Local

NO less than the chief of the Police Regional Office-Central Visayas (PRO-7) visited the policeman who is recuperating in a hospital after he was wounded in a shootout with an ex-convict in San Fernando, Cebu last Saturday, March 21.

During his visit on Wednesday, March 25, Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan awarded Pat. Kim Ceniza Villariaza with a Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (PNP Wounded Personnel Medal).

Villariaza was wounded in the armpit when murder suspect Jay Castañares fought it out with the police in Barangay Sangat, San Fernando.

Maranan assured Villariaza that the PRO-7 will continue to provide him assistance to help shoulder his medical expenses.

A representative from the Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund, Inc. also handed financial assistance to the wounded policeman during the visit.

Maranan commended Villariaza for his bravery, saying his heroics showed that the police are ready to fulfill its mandate of protecting the community.

“Your courage and dedication to duty embody the true spirit of public service. The sacrifice you have made in the line of duty is deeply honored by the entire Police Regional Office 7," Maranan said.

"Rest assured that your PRO 7 family stands firmly beside you as you continue your recovery. Your bravery will always serve as an inspiration to every police officer committed to protecting our communities," the PRO-7 chief added.

Villariaza was one of the Regional Mobile Force Batallion operatives who responded to the area after a food vendor was shot by Castañares.

A shootout erupted when Castañares fought back.(CDB)