PNP chief Lt. Gen. Melencio Nartatez Jr. salutes slain CIDG Capt. Joel Deiparine at the latter's wake in Talisay City. (Photo from Bong Son)
(FEATURE)
By Tracy Cabrera
TALISAY CITY, Cebu — Sympathizers remembered Police Captain Joel Deiparine as a dedicated officer who exemplified courage, integrity, and a deep sense of duty — qualities that continue to define the men and women of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
This was echoed by acting PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. who led the nation in paying tribute to Captain Deiparine of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)’s Regional Field Unit 7 whose life was tragically taken in an ambush while fulfilling his duty in Barangay Sudlon 2, Cebu City.
The Chief PNP personally visited the funeral home in Talisay City, Cebu, with Police Region VII director Brigadier General Redrico Maranan and senior police officials to pay final respects.
Nartatez extended his condolences and gratitude to the bereaved family, honoring the CIDG captain’s loyal and dedicated service to the organization.
Nartatez turned over financial assistance to the Deiparine family, reaffirming the PNP’s commitment to care for its personnel and their families, both in life and in loss.
“Captain Deiparine was a police officer who served with heart, courage, and commitment—a true reflection of the ideals that define the Philippine National Police,” the general enthused to describe the fallen officer.
Nartatez recounted that Capt. Deiparine, who was serving as assistant chief of intelligence with CIDG RFU 7, was conducting a surveillance operation on October 25 when he and his companion, former Master Sergeant Artchel Tero, were ambushed by unidentified assailants in Sitio Balaw in Barangay Sudlon 2 in Cebu City.
“The attack was sudden and merciless,” yet Deiparine “stood firm in his duty—a testament to his bravery and commitment to the mission and was fatally wounded, while Tero survived with minor injuries,” he narrated.
Under Nartatez’s directive, the PNP immediately offered a ₱500,000 reward for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators.
Last October 29, one of the suspects, identified as Leonardo ‘Jun’ Manto Jr., surrendered to the authorities in Pasig City. Nartatez confirmed that Manto had admitted involvement in the ambush during a radio interview, saying he “felt the pressure” of the nationwide manhunt. He is now under police custody and will be brought back to Cebu to face charges.
