By Jennifer P. Rendon
The body of Police Staff Sergeant Mechael Gatinao, who went missing during a seaborne patrol, was found dead two days after the incident off the coast of San Isidro, Sibunag, Guimaras.
Fishermen discovered Gatinao’s body entangled in their fishnet at around 10:25 a.m. on October 18, approximately 20 nautical kilometers from Barangay Guiwanon, Nueva Valencia, where the incident occurred.
When found, Gatinao still had his issued service firearm, a 9mm Glock pistol, along with several magazines, ammunition, a flashlight, a mobile phone, and a black bandolier. However, his Galil Ace Bar 5.56mm rifle remained missing.
The 42-year-old policeman, a member of the Nueva Valencia Municipal Police Station, fell overboard on the night of October 16 while chasing fishermen engaged in illegal “palupad” fishing.
According to police reports, Gatinao and a team led by Nueva Valencia police chief, Major Kennith Bermejo, were pursuing the fishermen when Gatinao attempted to transfer to the suspects’ boat.
“He was about to board the suspects’ boat when he fell,” said Colonel Rhea Santos, Guimaras police chief. Gatinao was reportedly carrying 10 to 15 kilograms of firearms and ammunition, which may have hindered his ability to stay afloat.
As the police turned their focus on rescuing Gatinao, the illegal fishermen managed to escape.
Gatinao’s body was brought to Beltran Funeral Parlor in Buenavista for an autopsy.
The fallen officer leaves behind three children: two sons aged seven and 16, and a 13-year-old daughter.
He had been in the police service for 15 years and 10 months.
Gatinao’s twin brother, also a policeman, is assigned to the Guimaras Police Provincial Office.
