Belmonte leads unveiling of facility honoring slain cop

MANILA, Philippines — A new facility was unveiled at the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) headquarters at Camp Karingal on Thursday in honor of a policeman who was killed in a shootout with an alleged robber last year.

Mayor Joy Belmonte led the unveiling of the Patrolman Baggay Lounge, which is named after Pat. Harwin Curtney Baggay, who died after a shootout with suspect Rolando Villarete during a robbery in Barangay Commonwealth on June 30, 2025.

“The QCPD dedicates this facility to him, for his bravery and dedication to public service – you are truly a hero, we salute you,” Belmonte said on social media.

QCPD director Brig. Gen. Randy Glenn Silvio said Baggay’s courage, dedication and sacrifice in the line of duty serves as an inspiration to other police officers.

Present during the event were Baggay’s parents and other police officials.

Baggay’s father, Hector, thanked Belmonte and the QCPD for the financial assistance extended to the family in recognition of his son’s sacrifice.

He appealed to the National Police Commission to restore guidelines that would provide pension support for parents of police officers killed in police operations, especially those who are breadwinners.

The elder Baggay said such support would help families who are left without economic security.