Quezon City, Philippines — A police officer from Quezon City Police District (QCPD) was killed while on duty during an armed encounter rooted from a robbery incident in the early hours of June 30, 2025, along Katipunan Street, Barangay Commonwealth.
The officer was identified as Patrolman Harwin Curtney Liggayu Baggay, a member of the District Tactical and Motorized Unit (DTMU).
He and his partner were stationed at a Fixed Visibility Post (FVP) in front of Benigno Aquino Elementary School when they heard successive gunshots not too far from their location. The officers promptly responded to what turned out to be an ongoing robbery.
Upon arrival at the scene, Patrolman Baggay engaged and sustained a fatal gunshot wound that entered through his left arm and pierced his chest. Although injured, Baggay managed to return fire before collapsing on the ground. His partner fatally shot the suspect during the confrontation.
Baggay was immediately rushed to Rosario Maclang Hospital, where he was declared dead at 3:38 AM.
Two civilians were also injured during the incident. A male victim, identified as “Sonny,” suffered gunshot wounds on his left upper arm and trunk, while a woman known by the alias “Irah Mae” sustained injuries from a ricocheted bullet fragment. Both were brought to the same hospital for treatment.
The suspect was then identified as Rolando Capin Villiarete, 33 years old, a welder and resident of Barangay Payatas, Quezon City. His identity was confirmed by his live-in partner, who introduced herself as “Rena.” Police reports indicated that Villiarete had past criminal records, including a 2024 case for violation of R.A. 10591 (Illegal Possession of Firearms), for which he was released on bail. He also had previous records for Alarms and Scandals in 2018 and two Attempted Homicide cases in years 2015 and 2017.
According to QCPD Officer-in-Charge PCOL Silvio, Villiarete’s neutralization does not conclude the investigation, as authorities are actively pursuing any possible accomplices and ensuring full accountability.
“The swift response of our personnel reflects our unwavering commitment to public safety and effective service delivery, in line with the directive of the Chief PNP’s core pillar of swift and responsive public service,” he said.
The QCPD expressed profound grief over the loss of Patrolman Baggay, who was hailed as a courageous and dedicated public servant.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Patrolman Harwin Curtney Baggay and assure them of our full support during this time of grief,” QCPD said in a statement. “The loss of one of our own only strengthens our resolve to relentlessly pursue justice and protect our communities.”
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The QCPD reiterated its commitment to maintain peace and order in Quezon City as investigations into the incident continue.
Watch the CCTV video: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19y7QGBhKt/ – Danna San Antonio, Contributor