Echoes of Balagsik: How Two Policewomen Saved a Pregnant Mother
The morning of June 6, 2026, began like any other Saturday in Baguio City. Abanao Square hummed with its usual weekend energy—shoppers darting in and out of stores and the steady murmur of the crowd.
But the rhythm shattered when a pregnant woman suddenly collapsed onto the cold floor, losing consciousness. Within seconds, panic rippled through the mall. Bystanders froze, unsure of what to do, as a tense circle formed around the helpless woman. Every passing second wasn’t just a risk to her life—it was a threat to the unborn child she carried.
When the distress call came in, Patrolwoman Faith Paga and Patrolwoman Julie Cobcobo—both proud natives of Mountain Province and members of PSBRC Class 2023-01 “Balagsik” assigned to Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) Station 7—who were patrolling nearby, immediately rushed to provide assistance.
Dropping to the floor beside the unconscious mother, the duo went to work. While one administered critical first aid, the other managed the swelling, panicked crowd, carving out a pocket of space so the mother could breathe.
Their training kicked in like clockwork, perfectly living up to their class name, Balagsik—an acronym for Bayaning Laging Gagampanan ang Serbisyo sa Inang Bayan nang may Kagitingan at Katapatan—a term that signifies agility and swiftness.
Through their decisive coordination, the scene was completely stabilized by the time the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) team arrived. The expectant mother was safely transferred to the paramedics and rushed to the hospital for evaluation.
Far from the spotlight and away from the cameras, Pat. Paga and Pat. Cobcobo went back to their patrol. Their actions that morning serve as a quiet, powerful reminder of the true spirit of public service in the Cordillera: quiet bravery, immediate action, and deep-rooted compassion for the people they serve.
More than first responders: Bontoc cops rescue injured motorist from deep ravine
When emergencies strike, police officers do more than just manage traffic—they save lives.
In the dead of night, the call came in: a motorist had lost control and plummeted into a deep ravine along the Lanao Diversion Road in Poblacion, Bontoc. At that challenging hour, the pitch-black darkness and the steep terrain made searching the area incredibly dangerous and calling for backup difficult. However, because police personnel operate 24 hours a day, this vigilant four-man team was ready to act immediately.
Operating in perfect synchronization as a four-man element, the police officers divided their efforts to conquer the darkness and the terrain. Upon reaching the victim, they administered immediate first aid, carefully pulled him out of the deep ravine, and rushed him to Bontoc General Hospital to ensure he received timely medical treatment.
This swift, life-saving rescue operation was successfully carried out by PCMS C.A. Fakat of Bontoc (PSBRC Class 2006 “MATATAG”), PCMS Arnold C Danggalan of Paracelis (PSBRC Class 2010-02 “SANDATA”), PCpl Dexter John Kent D Assud of Poblacion, Bontoc (PSBRC Class 2015-01 “PANABAK”), and PCpl Mike G Bannawi of Sagada (PSBRC Class 2017-02 “LIYAB DIWA”). Beyond their rigorous tactical training and dedication as public servants, these police officers are also devoted family men and loving fathers—a reality that underscores the deep personal empathy they bring to the uniform when a life hangs in the balance.
Their rapid response, flawless coordination, and calm execution under intense pressure prevented a late-night accident from turning into a tragedy.
This incident serves as a clear reminder to all drivers to stay alert and drive safely. While accidents can happen in an instant, the 24/7 readiness and quick action of our police officers ensure that help is always there when it matters most.**
