MANILA – Malacañang condemned on Sunday the ambush on the convoy of Food and Drug Administration director general Nela Charade-Puno, four days after the incident that killed three police officers in Camarines Norte.
Puno was on her way to a gathering when her convoy was attacked by more or less 20 armed men last Thursday.
“We strongly denounce the ambush of FDA director general Nela Charade G. Puno and her convoy in Camarines Sur which left at least three policemen dead and three others wounded,” Presidential Spokesman Salvador Panelo said in a statement.
Killed in the attack in Barangay Napolidan, Puli town were three police escorts – Senior Police Officer 1 Percival Rafael, Police Officer 3 Carlito Navarozza and Police Officer 1 Ralph Jason Vida.
Three others were injured – Police Officer 1 Jonathan Perillo, Police Officer 1 Rodolfo Gonzaga and Police Officer 1 Ruby Buena. They were brought to the Bicol Medical Center in Naga City.
Puno was unhurt. She canceled the event. Other officers in the security convoy retaliated and drove the gunmen away. Police and the Philippine Army launched a hot pursuit operation to locate the attackers.
The Palace expressed condolences to the bereaved families of the slain officers.
Puno has been advised by the authorities to defer attending the wake of the policemen, Panelo said.
“We likewise send our prayers and thoughts for the speedy recovery of the policemen who were wounded during this brazen assault,” he added.
Malacañang assured the public that the perpetrators will be brought to justice. (GMA News)
