The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) on Tuesday condemned what it called a “brutal attack” in Barangay Menchaca, Calatrava, Negros Occidental, which left a police officer and a civilian dead.

In its December 9 press statement, the NAPOLCOM said the incident resulted in the “tragic deaths” of Police Senior Master Sergeant Rommel Aguilar of the 1st Negros Occidental Provincial Mobile Force Company and civilian Mando Ugdiman. The agency described the shooting, allegedly committed by members of the New People’s Army (NPA), as a “senseless act of violence” and “a direct assault on peace, stability, and the rule of law.”

NAPOLCOM Chief Commissioner Rafael Vicente Calinisan extended his “deepest sympathies” to the victims’ families and assured them that the commission “stands firmly with them during this difficult time.” He also pledged full support for the Philippine National Police (PNP) in its “intensified pursuit operations and case buildup” to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

The agency reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening police operations and ensuring public safety, stressing: “Acts of terrorism and lawlessness will never weaken our resolve to defend peace, justice, and the well-being of our communities.”