LEGAZPI CITY – The Police Regional Office in Bicol (PRO-5) has handed over cash assistance to the family of a police officer who was killed in an operation aimed at arresting a member of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army (CPP-NPA).
In an interview on Thursday, Maj. Malu Calubaquib, PRO-5 spokesperson, said the surviving wife and children of PSSg. Nikki Codera of the Masbate 2nd Provincial Mobile Force received PHP550,000 financial assistance early this week.
Calubaquib said the cash assistance was sourced out from the contributions of Bicol police personnel and was personally turned over to his family in Pio V. Corpuz, Masbate.
"The camaraderie and brotherhood of the men and women of Bicol police have truly come a long way as it extends financial assistance to the family of the late PSSg Nikki Codera," she said.
Calubaquib added that the heroism and bravery of the late police officer will always be remembered.
"He will serve as an inspiration to his colleagues to continue what the organization has started in such a way putting justice and honor to his sacrifices in the name of public service," she added.
"Kami ay lubos na nakikidalamhati sa mga mga naulila ni PSSg Nikki Codera na nagbuwis ng kanyang buhay sa ngalan ng pagtupad sa kanyang sinumpaang tungkulin bilang isang alagad ng batas. Sya ay maituturing na isang bayani na kumakatawan sa disiplina at katapatan sa tungkulin na inaasahan di lamang sa bawat pulis at lingkod-bayan kundi sa bawat mamamayang may pagmamalasakit sa kapakanan ng ating pamayanan. Sya ay isang huwaran para sa lahat at mananatiling buhay ang kanyang alaala at mabuting ginawa sa puso at isipan naming lahat. (We express our deepest sympathy to the bereaved family of PSSg Nikki Codera, who gave his life in the service of his duty as a public servant. He is a hero that symbolizes the discipline and honesty in the service that is expected not just by the other police officers but by every fellowman who seeks peace in our community. He was a good example to all, his memories will remain in our hearts and minds)," PRO-5 director Brig. Gen. Mario Reyes said in a statement.
Codera was killed in a shootout while serving a warrant of arrest against suspect Hubert Aplacador, who is wanted for murder by a Masbate court in Barangay 157, Malibay, Pasay City.
However, Aplacador opened fire at the arresting team, prompting them to retaliate, which resulted in the shooting of Codera.
Codera was immediately brought to the nearest hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Lt. Rogelio Walay, the arresting team's leader who was injured in the encounter, is now in stable condition. (PNA)
