Cop sharpshooter cited for heroism

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga, Philippines – The police sharpshooter who foiled a robbery-holdup in a bus cruising EDSA in Quezon City last May 21 has officially been recognized by his superiors for his heroism.

Chief Superintendent Leon Nilo de la Cruz, Central Luzon police director, awarded Inspector Christopher Obien of the Bulacan police the Medalya ng Kadakilaan and a cash reward of P100,000.

De la Cruz said the award and reward for Obien is part of the Morale and Welfare Program under the PNP’s Integrated Transformation Program.

Obien is also expected to be promoted anytime to the rank of Senior Inspector, as De la Cruz recommended to PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa.

De la Cruz said Obien was on his way to apply for a salary loan to fund his basic officer course and his father’s eye surgery when he encountered the three bus holdup men, killing two of them single-handedly.– Ding Cervantes