Davao Oriental police being abducted by NPA, released

Miami
June 6, 2008
Story: Davao Oriental police being abducted by NPA, released

The police that was abducted last June 3, Tuesday in the province of Davao Oriental was reportedly released Thursday afternoon, official said.

The police was PO1 Rowel Balmores, 28 was abducted last June 3 while his Chief Boston town chief of Police Chief Inspector Joel Belenson was killed by their abductors who were allegedly members of New People’s Army (NPA).

Belenson and Balmores were on their way to Barangay Mahayhay to attend court hearing when suddenly they were abducted by New People’ Army in barangay Cabasagan. The two were riding in one motorcycle when they were blocked by several armed men.

Davao Oriental PPO Provincial Director Jimmy Manabat said, Cateel town Councilor Wilbur “Maning” Chua was contacted by the NPA for the release of Balmores. He also said that the NPA did not ask for any ransom. “Maybe they are just threatening the PNP that they can abduct police personnel, but we will not stop our operations on them”

When Balmores was released he was brought to Baganga Parish and turned over to Father Migs Salomera in Barangay Sumilao.

Manabat said with the release of Balmores, they will continue their counter-operations against the NPA.

Balmores is currently now at theDavao oriental PPO for de-briefing and will undergo medical check-up to.