PNP lauds Camarines cop’s heroism

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police lauded the heroism of a policeman whose hand was severed after a deranged man attacked him with a bolo in San Jose, Camarines Sur over the weekend.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said S/Sgt. Noli Mirana showed courage and discipline when he attempted to subdue the man who was suffering from a mental illness.

“We commend S/Sgt. Miraña and his fellow officers for their courage, restraint and professionalism in responding to this dangerous situation,” Nartatez said in a statement.

He said that while maximum tolerance is the first option, police officers could also use appropriate force when their lives are in danger during an operation.

“I am reminding all our personnel to prioritize de-escalation whenever circumstances allow, but to act decisively when there is an imminent threat to life,” Nartatez said.

Mirana was among the police officers who responded to a call for assistance about an armed man who was running amok in Barangay Calalahan on Saturday.

He and other police officers initially attempted to communicate with the man, but the suspect charged at them.

The suspect attacked Mirana with a bolo after he fell to the ground, cutting off his left hand and injuring his face. The other police officers shot the suspect in the thighs to immobilize him.

Mirana and the suspect were brought to Partido District Hospital and were later transferred to the Bicol Medical Center for further treatment.

Col. Allen Rae Co, PNP spokesman, said Mirana underwent surgery during which doctors reattached his hand.

“The doctors were able to reattach his hand’s two major arteries. We are hoping that he would be able to restore the use of his hand, even if it’s not at 100 percent,” Co said in a news briefing at Camp Crame.