Off-duty cop saves trike driver, collars rob suspect

MANILA, Philippines - An off-duty policeman rescued a tricycle driver from an alleged robber who was stabbing him with an icepick along V. Luna Road in Quezon City at past midnight Saturday.

Superintendent Marcelino Pedrozo Jr., who heads the Quezon City Police District’s District Police Intelligence Operating Unit (QCPD-DPIOU), said tricycle driver Allyn Samuyag was cruising along V. Luna Road when suspect Larry Redondo held him up near the corner of Matapat street. Samuyag said Redondo robbed him of P370, but he managed to grapple for possession of the icepick and shout for help.

Police Officer 2 Macfel Japay was driving his car along the road and heard the victim’s cries for help. He ran to the aid of the victim.

But before Japay could intervene, Redondo stabbed Samuyag in the body. The policeman pulled Redondo off his victim, but the suspect then stabbed Japay in the neck.

Japay, despite being wounded, disarmed and subdued the suspect.

Japay is assigned with the QCPD-DPIOU. Pedrozo, who heads the unit, said he will recommend Japay for a commendation and spot promotion for his heroism.

“He (Japay) was off duty at that time but he still heeded the call of a robbery victim,” Pedrozo said in an interview.

He said Redondo was a member of Bahala na Gang and was charged with robbery and direct assault for having hurt not just Japay but also his victim. Both men were brought to the East Avenue Medical Center for treatment.