By Jennifer P. Rendon
A policeman died while conducting a surveillance operation against a drug personality in Pototan, Iloilo, Corporal Reo Manero, a member of Pototan Municipal Police Station, died of multiple gunshot injuries.
The prime suspect, identified as Michael Solis, was the subject of Manero’s surveillance.
According to Major Jose Rey Pabalan, Pototan police chief, Manero had entered the compound in Barangay Polot-an where Solis resides around 10 a.m. on April 8.
Shortly after, a sequence of gunshots rang out, and Manero was found collapsed with multiple wounds, unable to draw his weapon in defense.
Despite being rushed to the Iloilo Provincial Hospital, Manero was declared dead upon arrival.
Solis, 41, is a drug personality listed on the watchlists of both the local PNP and the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) 6.
Following the shooting, Solis fled the scene and is currently at large.
Manero, who previously served as an intelligence operative for the Iloilo Police Provincial Office, was in plainclothes and acting alone without a search or arrest warrant at the time of the incident.
Police records reveal Solis has a history of criminal charges, including drug peddling, acts of lasciviousness, and frustrated murder in Pototan.
Brigadier General Jack expressed deep regret over Manero’s untimely death, stating, “the Police Regional Office 6 (PRO6) is saddened by the untimely demise of Manero.”
He also extended heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the PRO6 for Manero’s service to the nation and its citizens.
