CAMP GEN. VICENTE LIM, Calamba City — Two policemen were awarded medals, one posthumously, for their “bravery and heroism”, during a bloody encounter in a buy-bust operation in Antipolo City this week.
Police Brig. Gen. Edward Carranza, Calabarzon Police Regional Director, on Thursday awarded the “Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting” (wounded personnel medal) to Police Staff Seargent Joseph Monjardin and the posthumous “Medalya ng Kadakilaan” (medal of heroism) to Patrolman Ariel Dapyawen.
Monjardin was wounded-in-action while Dapyawen, a member of the Antipolo City Intelligence Operatives, was killed during the armed encounter with the notorious LEGO group during a buy-bust operation on April 23 in Sitio Sagipin and Mapayapa, Barangay Dela Paz in Antipolo City.
In conferring the awards, Carranza cited Monjardin for his courageous deeds and Dapyawen for his acts of heroism in the performance of his duties.
Police identified the LEGO group as a band of notorious drug users and pushers involved in gun-for-hire activities and robbery incidents in Rizal province.
“This will not stop us from running after similar criminal groups. This is one of our focus efforts especially that 2019 midterm elections is fast approaching,” Carranza said.
Police investigation disclosed that during the shootout, Dapyawen and Monjardin were both hit by the suspects as the latter tried to escape towards a nearby residence.
Dapyawen was taken to the Antipolo City District Hospital but expired while undergoing treatment. Monjardin, who was hit on the stomach, was rushed to the Amang Rodriguez Memorial Medical Center in Marikina City and is now in stable condition.
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