TACLOBAN CITY – A police forensics officer from the Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) unit in Northern Samar drowned after their motorboat capsized while returning from a mission to retrieve the bodies of New People’s Army (NPA) rebels killed in a recent clash with government forces.
Police Executive Master Sergeant (PEMS) Harry Mangiga Palao-ay, 42, a member of the Provincial Explosive and Canine Unit (NSPECU), died on Saturday, August 2, 2025, after completing a crime scene investigation in Barangay San Isidro, Las Navas, where eight suspected NPA rebels were killed in a military operation two days earlier.
According to police reports, the boat carrying Palao-ay and his team was navigating back from the mountainous site when it capsized. Despite immediate rescue efforts, Palao-ay was declared dead due to drowning.
The Northern Samar Police Provincial Office (NSPPO), led by Police Colonel Sonnie Omengan, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Palao-ay, describing him as a seasoned and courageous officer regularly deployed to high-risk operations, including bomb threats and post-blast investigations.
“PEMS Palao-ay died with his boots on — upholding his oath to serve and protect, even in the face of peril,” said Omengan. “His passing is a great loss not only to the Northern Samar police but to the entire Philippine National Police. We honor his bravery, professionalism, and selfless service to the people of Northern Samar.”
Originally from La Trinidad, Benguet, Palao-ay was also remembered as a devoted family man.
The fatal incident followed an armed encounter on July 31, when troops from the 8th Infantry Division (8ID) launched an operation in response to reports of armed rebels threatening local farmers in Las Navas.
The clash resulted in the deaths of eight members of the Eastern Visayas Regional Party Committee (EVRPC). Among those killed were Richard Jumadiao alias Joban, leader of the SRGU Laysan; “Berbon”, vice squad leader of an independent squad under the RGU; and Jinky Senobio alias Sinag, member of Squad 1, RGU, EVRPC
Government troops also recovered 10 high-powered firearms, including a K3 light machine gun and an M16 rifle.
Major General Adonis Ariel Orio, commander of the 8ID and Joint Task Force Storm, praised the role of civilian informants and reaffirmed the military’s efforts to dismantle the remaining insurgent groups in Eastern Visayas.
“To the remnants of the EVRPC, return to your families, choose peace over violence, and reclaim your future,” Orio urged. “The 8ID will help you reintegrate with dignity and support.”
Authorities are coordinating with the Las Navas local government to identify and return the remains of the slain rebels to their families. (RONALD O. REYES)
