Sta. Ana, Cagayan police chief dies after tragic road crash

Cagayan, Philippines – The police force in Cagayan mourns the death of one of their officials who succumbed to his injuries following a road crash on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

Santa Ana police chief, PMaj. Ranolfo Gabatin was driving his vehicle on the national highway in Barangay Rapuli, Santa Ana around 4:00 p.m. when he got involved in a vehicular accident.

Initial investigation of the police revealed that Gabatin attempted to overtake a van, and that he honked the horn of his vehicle and signaled he was about to overtake. However, as he was in the act of getting ahead of the van, the latter allegedly accelerated. This resulted in Gabatin’s vehicle crashing against the van, causing the official’s car to overturn.

The COP sustained serious injuries and later passed away. The driver of the van, meantime, was held by the police.

The Cagayan Police Provincial Office conveyed its sympathy to the family of the late COP, saying that Gabatin served with honor, courage, and commitment in the PNP.

“Your dedication, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten. You served with honor, courage, and commitment, leaving behind a legacy of duty and integrity. May you rest in peace, knowing that your brothers and sisters in uniform will carry on the mission you so bravely upheld,” the Cagayan PPO wrote.