A police officer was tragically killed during a drug enforcement operation in Bacolod City, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by law enforcement personnel in the fight against illegal substances. The incident occurred on the evening of Thursday, April 9, 2026, along Alijis Road in front of Jade Court II, located within Barangay Singcang-Airport.
Details of the Fatal Encounter
The fatality has been identified as Police Master Sergeant Romulo Galvez, a dedicated member of the Drug Enforcement Team (SDET) attached to Police Station 9 of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO). According to official reports from Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, who serves as the Public Information Office chief for the Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR), the operation was targeting a 32-year-old suspect involved in drug pushing activities.
During the buy-bust, the situation escalated rapidly when the suspect unexpectedly produced a caliber .45 firearm and discharged it at the operating police officers. Galvez sustained a critical gunshot wound to his right thigh in the confrontation. He was immediately transported to Bacolod Adventist Medical Center for emergency medical treatment.
Medical Outcome and Official Response
Despite receiving prompt medical intervention, Police Master Sergeant Galvez succumbed to his injuries at 12:08 a.m. on April 10, 2026. The cause of death was determined to be hypovolemic shock, a severe condition resulting from significant blood loss, secondary to the gunshot wound. The suspect, a resident of Barangay Sum-ag in Bacolod City, was successfully apprehended by the operatives at the scene.
Following the arrest, law enforcement officials recovered several pieces of evidence from the suspect's possession. This included multiple plastic sachets containing marijuana, with an estimated market value of P48,000, along with the marked money used in the operation. Additionally, authorities seized one caliber .45 pistol, complete with a magazine loaded with five live rounds of ammunition.
Legal Proceedings and Organizational Condemnation
The suspect is currently detained at the custodial facility of Police Station 8, awaiting formal charges. He is expected to face serious legal consequences for violations of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Furthermore, charges for murder and illegal possession of firearms are being prepared in connection with the fatal shooting of Police Master Sergeant Galvez.
Brigadier General Arnold Thomas Ibay, the director of PRO-NIR, expressed profound grief over the incident in an official statement. He emphasized the organization's commitment to providing immediate support and ensuring accountability. "This is a sad day, and with heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of Galvez who gave his life in the line of duty. His courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten. We extend our deepest condolences to his family and assure them of our full support in this difficult time," Ibay stated.
Brigadier General Ibay has directed concerned units to facilitate swift assistance to the bereaved family, underscoring the importance of immediate support during this period of mourning. He also reaffirmed PRO-NIR's strong condemnation of what he described as a senseless act of violence, vowing that justice will be served. The organization remains steadfast in its intensified campaign against illegal drugs and criminality, honoring the ultimate sacrifice made by its fallen personnel.
