Guard slain in Ateneo shooting to get PNP award

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police (PNP) will honor the security guard who was among the three persons killed during a shooting at the Ateneo de Manila University, an official said yesterday.

The PNP will posthumously confer the Medalya ng Katangi-tanging Asal or outstanding conduct award on Jeneven Bandiala for his bravery and heroism.

PNP director for operations Maj. Gen. Valeriano de Leon said the Civil Security Group is coordinating with the family of Bandiala for the conferment of the award.

“He deserves this honor for the heroism he showed in safeguarding the welfare of students and other individuals on campus at the time and for attempting to stop the gunman from escaping,” De Leon said.

“This heroic gesture cost him his life, but his bravery will serve as an inspiration to his fellow security guards,” he added.

Bandiala was among those who were shot dead by Chao Tiao Yumol, a physician, on the Ateneo campus on July 24.

Also killed were former Lamitan, Basilan mayor Rosita Furigay and her executive assistant Victor Capistrano. Furigay’s daughter was wounded in the incident.

De Leon said the PNP would also extend financial assistance to Bandiala’s family.

Yumol is being held on charges of murder, frustrated murder and malicious mischief.