PNP honors slain CIDG officer

Police Captain Joel Deiparine was remembered as a brave and selfless officer who embodied courage, integrity, and an unwavering sense of duty—virtues that define the men and women of the Philippine National Police (PNP).

Acting PNP Chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. led the nation in paying tribute to the fallen member of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 7, whose life was cut short in a deadly ambush while performing his duty in Barangay Sudlon 2, Cebu City.

Nartatez personally visited the funeral home in Talisay City where Capt. Deiparine was laid in state, accompanied by Police Regional Office 7 Director Brigadier General Redrico Maranan and other senior police officials. The general extended his condolences to Deiparine’s grieving family, honoring the officer’s loyalty and years of dedicated service.

“Captain Deiparine was a police officer who served with heart, courage and commitment—a true reflection of the ideals that define the Philippine National Police,” Nartatez said as he turned over financial assistance to the bereaved family.

According to Nartatez, Deiparine, who served as assistant chief of intelligence at CIDG RFU 7, was leading a surveillance operation on October 25 when he and his companion, Master Sergeant Artchel Tero, were ambushed by unidentified gunmen in Sitio Balaw, Barangay Sudlon 2.

“The attack was sudden and merciless, yet Captain Deiparine stood firm in his duty—a testament to his bravery and commitment to the mission,” the PNP chief said. Deiparine was fatally wounded in the gunfight, while Tero survived with minor injuries.

Following the ambush, the PNP offered a ₱500,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators. Four days later, one of the suspects, identified as Leonardo “Jun” Manto Jr., surrendered to authorities in Pasig City.

Manto admitted his involvement in the ambush during a radio interview, saying he surrendered because he “felt the pressure” of the nationwide manhunt. He is now under police custody and will be transported back to Cebu to face charges.

As the investigation continues, Nartatez assured that justice will be served. “We will not rest until every person responsible for this cowardly act is brought to justice,” he vowed. TRACY CABRERA