MALACAÑANG has denounced the surprise attack on the convoy of Food and Drug Administration Director General Nela Charade Puno in Camarines Sur on October 18 and vowed to pursue justice for the three slain police officers.

Puno was unharmed but she has been advised to defer attending the wake of the policemen, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said Sunday, October 21.

"We strongly denounce the ambush of Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Director-General Nela Charade G. Puno and her convoy in Camarines Sur which left at least three policemen dead and three others wounded," Panelo said.

"We commend the policemen who died in the line of duty and express our deep condolences to their bereaved families and loved ones... We likewise send our prayers and thoughts for the speedy recovery of the policemen who were wounded during this brazen assault," he added.

Panelo said investigation was being conducted into the incident.

"We will ensure that the perpetrators of this unjustifiable act are brought to justice," he said.

The Camarines Sur police said at least 20 members of the communist New People's Army carried out the attack at 9:10 a.m. of October 18 along the national highway of Lupi.

Killed were Senior Police Officer 1 Percival Rafael, Police Officer (PO) 3 Carlito Navarroza and PO 1 Ralph Jason Vida.

Puno's convoy was on its way to Daet, Camarines Norte when the attack happened. (MVI/SunStar Philippines)