MANILA, Philippines — A police officer was killed for allegedly robbing a convenience store in Bulacan, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Tuesday. In a statement, the Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 (Central Luzon) identified the suspect,through his wife Katherine Joy Sarto, as PCapt. Ronnie B. Sarto of the Caloocan City Police. According to reports, the incident happened on Monday at about 7:30 p.m. Sarto, identified as wearing a red jacket, held up a store in Barangay Santa Rosa in Marilao, taking P20,000 before fleeing on a motorcycle to a subdivision in Barangay Loma de Gato in the same town. Crew on duty reported the matter to the police and requested assistance. A hot pursuit operation ensued with police chancing upon the suspect, who opened fire at the operatives, prompting them to shoot back. Hit during the exchange, the suspect was brought to the nearest hospital where he was declared dead on arrival. Subsequent verification confirmed that the suspect was a member of the law enforcement community, prompting the PRO3 to launch a comprehensive investigation to determine his possible involvement in a syndicate engaged in a series of robberies targeting convenience stores across Central Luzon. Brig. Gen. Ponce Rogelio I. Peñones Jr., Central Luzon police chief, expressed deep concern over the incident and underscored the importance of maintaining integrity, accountability, and professionalism within the organization. “This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder that no one is above the law,” said Peñones.