Police Regional Office (PRO) 7 director Chief Supt. Debold Sinas on Monday commended a Sagbayan police officer who was wounded during a surveillance operation on an alleged drug dealer on December 10.

PO2 Nelson Cordilla of the Sagbayan Police Station was honored with the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting for wounded bravery and service to the country.

Cordilla received the award from Sinas while confined at the Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City where he continued to be treated for his injuries.

The PRO 7, through an order, said that Cordilla was hacked with bolos by Temoteo Orquiza and Leonardo Orquiza while he was monitoring the duo’s relative, Julius Orquiza who is listed in the town’s drug watch list.

Cordilla was stationed outside the residence of Julius in Barangay Catalina, Sagbayan when the latter suddenly tried to grab the police officer’s service firearm.

Temoteo and Leonardo, Julius’ father and brother, respectively, noticed the commotion and allegedly attacked Cordilla with bolos.

Cordilla was able to shoot and injure Leonardo while Temoteo was arrested and Julius was able to flee.

Police said that Temoteo was apprehended through a hot pursuit operation.

Meanwhile, Cordilla’s family was also given cash as Christmas present.

Sinas said that Cordilla will also be subjected to a stress debriefing after he has recuperated. (rt)