PRO-7 honors cop, who shot it out with robbers

CEBU, Philippines – A medal of merit was awarded yesterday to Police Officer 3 Osorio Ramiso Jr. for his "single act of heroism" when he foiled a robbery of a lending firm in Barangay Sambag I a week ago by shooting it out with the fleeing robbers resulting to their eventual arrest.

Police Regional Office-7 director Chief Supt. Ager Ontog pinned the Medalya ng Kagalingan to Ramiso during their weekly flag raising ceremony at the Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr. headquarters.

Deputy regional director for police community relations Sr. Supt. Anthony Obenza said the award was the highest that the PRO-7 could give to its men for doing an exemplary performance and for having executed deeds of courage and gallantry in action.

Ramiso, assigned at the PCR, was awarded for his "single act of heroism" when he responded to a call for help that resulted to a shootout and the arrest of the three suspected robbers, two of them were wounded.

Ramiso, despite being on off duty when the incident happened, responded and shoot it out with Alberto Torregosa and Shyrell Ostia. The two are allegedly remnants of the notorious Casimero 'Meloy' Garcia robbery group from Bohol.

Torregosa and Ostia were both injured during the shootout and eventually arrested. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of their alleged lookout, John Nuez.

The police recovered the P113,100 loot money, ladies wristwatches, a ring and a cellular phone, two firearms and the motorcycle used as getaway vehicle.

"This remarkable accomplishment of PO3 Ramiso has distinctly exhibited his spirited and conspicuous bravery, ready to risk his life beyond the call of duty, which earned the admiration and esteem not only of the members of PRO-7 but to the entire PNP as well," Obenza said.

Obenza said they are also waiting for Ontog and other officials of the Regional Promotions Board to convene for possible recommendation of 'spot promotion' for Ramiso to the Promotions Board in Camp Crame. (FREEMAN)