Doctors reattach cop's severed hand
By Rhaydz Barcia
LEGAZPI CITY — Government physicians at the Bicol Medical Center (BMC) successfully reattached the severed left hand of Police Staff Sergeant (PSSg) Noli M. Miraña during a complex operation on Monday, following a bolo attack in San Jose, Camarines Sur.
Miraña sustained serious injuries after he was attacked by a suspect armed with a bolo while responding to a report of an armed individual in Zone 1, Barangay Calalahan, San Jose, on Aug. 22, 2026.
Police Lt. Col. Maria Luisa Calubaquib, spokesperson of the Police Regional Office 5, said personnel of the San Jose Municipal Police Station, led by Miraña, attempted to peacefully de-escalate the situation upon their arrival.
“Demonstrating remarkable restraint, they tried to communicate with the suspect, who was believed to be in the midst of a mental health crisis. Unfortunately, the suspect suddenly attacked the officers, causing PSSg Miraña to fall. The suspect then attacked him with a bolo, inflicting serious injuries on his left hand and face,” Calubaquib said.
Miraña’s fellow officers immediately intervened to stop the attack and protect their colleague. They fired their service firearms, hitting the suspect in both thighs and effectively neutralizing the threat, according to the police report.
Miraña and the suspect were initially brought to Partido District Hospital before being transferred to BMC for further treatment.
Following the incident, PNP Bicol awarded Miraña the Medalya ng Sugatang Magiting (Wounded Personnel Medal) in recognition of his bravery and dedication to duty. Police Brig. Gen. Ronaldo I. Fulo, PNP deputy regional director for administration in Bicol, presented the medal to Miraña at BMC on Monday.
“We commend the bravery, professionalism, and selflessness of our responding personnel. They exemplify the highest ideals of the police service—protecting lives even at great personal risk,” Calubaquib said.
She said Miraña’s decision to attempt a peaceful resolution despite facing an armed individual reflected the true heart of a public servant.
“We also acknowledge the swift teamwork of his fellow officers, whose immediate action prevented further harm. We ask for your prayers for the speedy recovery of PSSg Miraña,” Calubaquib added.
Meanwhile, National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Commissioner Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan also commended Miraña for his courage and dedication to duty.
“I commend Police Staff Sergeant Noli M. Miraña of the San Jose Municipal Police Station for his extraordinary courage and dedication to duty after sustaining a grievous injury while responding to a dangerous incident in Barangay Calalahan, San Jose, Camarines Sur,” Calinisan said.
He said Miraña’s sacrifice serves as a reminder of the dangers police officers face in the line of duty and the courage required to place the safety of others before their own.
“PSSg Miraña's bravery and commitment to protect the community deserve the highest recognition and respect. NAPOLCOM will ensure that PSSg Miraña and his family receive the benefits and assistance due to him under existing laws, rules, and regulations. We will stand by him as he faces the difficult road to recovery,” Calinisan said.
Miraña remains at BMC, where he is recovering from his injuries.
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