Two police personnel from the Provincial Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Canine Unit (PECU) in Abra were declared dead on arrival at the hospital following a shooting incident inside their office at Casamata Hill, Zone 5, Bangued, on Monday night.

In a report by RH Romy Gonzales, fatalities were identified as Police Lieutenant Jamieson Bulatao, 47, Officer-in-Charge of PECU and a native of Baguio City, and Police Staff Sergeant O’Neal Ryan Calica, 37, of Pedigan, Abra.

According to the initial investigation, Calica was brushing his teeth inside the barracks when Bulatao suddenly fired multiple shots at him, hitting him in the left chest.

Bulatao reportedly then attempted to shoot another officer, Senior Master Sergeant Edwin Bandoc, but missed. Bandoc returned fire, striking Bulatao in the chest.

Both Bulatao and Calica were rushed to Seares Memorial Hospital but were declared dead on arrival. Calica sustained four gunshot wounds to the left chest, while Bulatao suffered gunshot injuries to his chest and abdomen.

Investigators recovered four empty shells from a .45 caliber firearm and two from a 9mm pistol at the crime scene.

Police reports indicate that a prior 'misunderstanding' between Bulatao and Calica may have led to the shooting. It was learned that Bulatao had recently been summoned to the regional office regarding a complaint that he had been drinking alcohol while on duty, and Calica was suspected of having reported the incident.

Following the exchange of gunfire, Bandoc voluntarily surrendered to authorities and is facing a possible charge of homicide.

The Abra Provincial Police Office and PRO-Cordillera have assured a transparent and impartial investigation into the case to ensure justice and accountability within the police ranks.