Cop killed in Quiapo drug bust gets cash aid

MANILA, Philippines - Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada on Tuesday visited the wake of a police officer who was killed in an anti-drug operation at the Islamic Center in Quiapo last week.

Estrada also gave the family of Senior Police Officer 2 Randy Marlon Lebrilla P100,000 in financial assistance.

“I salute our policemen who risk their lives every day to fight criminals and illegal drugs. I cannot thank them enough for their sacrifices,” Estrada said after visiting Lebrilla’s wake at the Manila Police District (MPD) headquarters along UN Avenue.

The mayor said the city government and the MPD would continue the war on drugs.

Estrada also visited PO1 Mark Pineda, 26, at the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC).

Pineda was wounded in the Quiapo drug bust.

Pineda’s wife, Lorna, received P50,000 assistance from Estrada.

The hospital will shoulder Pineda’s medical expenses, according to CGHMC president and chief executive officer Dr. James Dy.

“All policemen in Manila injured in the line of duty are free of charge in this hospital, including professional fees and medicine,” Dy said. 

MPD director Chief Superintendent Joel Coronel recommended the awarding of “Medalya ng Kadakilaan” to Lebrilla and Pineda for their bravery.

Lebrilla, 45, headed the MPD Station 8 Tactical Motorcycle Riders, which was part of the team that conducted an operation against drug suspect Codeng Macabato in Quiapo.