• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO NIR) has recognized police personnel for their outstanding performance in intelligence-driven operations that led to the seizure of nearly P30 million worth of illegal cigarettes.
PBrig. Gen. Villaflor Bannawagan, PRO-NIR deputy regional director for administration, led the awarding rites at Camp Alfredo M. Montelibano Sr. in Bacolod City on Monday, Aug. 17.
Among those conferred the Medalya ng Kagalingan were PLt. Col. James Latayon, Bago City police chief, and PCMS Archibald Villados.
Both were recognized for their role in an intelligence-driven operation on Aug. 6 in Purok Narra, Barangay Malingin, which resulted in the confiscation of 255 master cases of illicit cigarettes with an estimated market value of P14.61 million.
Two suspects allegedly involved in the illegal activities were also arrested during the operation.
Also honored were PMaj. Vann Joel Tingson, assistant team leader, and PCpl Christian Clark Villalobos.
Their operation on Aug. 5 in Barangay Looc, Dumaguete City resulted in the seizure of 263 master cases of illicit cigarettes valued at P15.07 million and the arrest of three suspects.
The successful operations resulted in the recovery of a combined 518 master cases of illicit cigarettes with an estimated total value of P29.68 million, highlighting the effectiveness of intelligence-led police operations against cigarette smuggling in the region. | GPB
