DILG, PNP posthumously honor slain police officer for gallantry

Interior Secretary Benhur Abacus gives posthumous honors to the family of Ronald Moralde, a police officer who was slain while confronting an armed man. Photo from the Office of Secretary of Interior and Local Government Benhur Abalos

MANILA, Philippines — A police officer who was slain while confronting an armed man in Maguindanao del Norte was given posthumous honors.

According to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Thursday, Police Captain Ronald Moralde was awarded the Medalya ng Katapangan, which is given to police members who have shown “gallantry in action.”

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Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos, who visited Moralde’s wake on Wednesday, also posthumously promoted the slain police officer to major.

The DILG chief said Moralde’s family was also given the President’s Special Financial Assistance.

Abalos was also joined by Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Rommel Francisco Marbil and other officials of the PNP.

“We mourn the passing of a dedicated officer, whose valor and commitment to duty exemplify the finest traditions of the Philippine National Police. PCPT Moralde’s sacrifice will not be forgotten, and his memory will continue to inspire us all,” Marbil said.

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The DILG said that Moralde was slain when he confronted a man with a gun at a market in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, on May 2.