PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) Chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., displayed ‘leadership where it counts’ by paying a personal visit to wounded troopers whom he also honored along with the police officers who were fallen during an operation in Quezon recently.
Nartatez personally went to the United Candelaria Doctors Hospital in Quezon to check on wounded police personnel and pay his final respects to a fallen officer.
His visit followed an armed confrontation on the evening of December 19, 2025 along a barangay road near Sitio Pulyok, Barangay San Isidro, Candelaria, Quezon.
While conducting mobile patrol operations, police personnel encountered several armed individuals near a banana plantation. One suspect opened fire, prompting the officers to defend themselves. Two troopers were wounded, while one officer was killed in the exchange of gunfire.
During the hospital visit, Nartatez himself awarded the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting and the Medalya ng Kadakilaan to the injured cops in recognition of their courage under fire. He also ensured that immediate financial assistance was extended to support their treatment and recovery.
The PNP personnel concerned found their chief’s gestures as direct and deliberate, reflecting a leadership approach grounded on presence and responsibility rather than distance or formality.
Nartatez also paid his last respects to Patrolman Ron Jay Chavez of the 2nd Quezon Provincial Mobile Force Company, who was declared dead-on-arrival following the encounter. His quiet moment beside the fallen officer spoke of command that carries both authority and compassion.
By choosing to be physically present, the Acting PNP Chief said he meant to send a clear message across the ranks: courage is recognized, sacrifice is honored and no officer stands alone.
The visit was seen by the PNP personnel as a reinforcement of the organization’s commitment to care for its people, especially in moments of loss and recovery.
“In standing with his men, Acting PNP Chief Nartatez showed that leadership is not only exercised through orders, but through presence when it matters most,” they said.
