Tabuk city: Police Chief Lt. Col. Jack Angog of Tabuk City has garnered praise for his compassionate decision to save a struggling father from imprisonment after he was caught stealing milk for his child. This act of empathy has highlighted the human side of law enforcement.

According to Philippines News Agency, the incident occurred on October 31 when a supermarket worker apprehended the man for taking a 1.725-kilogram box of baby milk without payment. Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. shared in a news release on Sunday that the suspect had lost his job after a construction project ended and was raising his child alone following the departure of his wife.

Lt. Gen. Nartatez emphasized that the incident, which quickly went viral on social media, underscored the importance of balancing firmness and empathy within policing. He stated that police work should always reflect these values in the execution of their duties.

“I commend the local police chief for showing compassion while still upholding the law. Hindi naman natin sinasang-ayunan ang ginawa pero nauunawaan natin na minsan, ang krimen ay bunga ng kahirapan o gutom (We do not condone what he did, but we understand that sometimes, crime is borne out of poverty or hunger),” Nartatez remarked.

Despite the compassionate approach, the PNP chief assured that the intervention adhered to legal procedures, ensuring no laws were violated. “The action was done within proper bounds — there was documentation, settlement, and compassion,” he added.

Nartatez reiterated that while the PNP does not condone theft or wrongdoing, it is essential to recognize the hardship stories behind many violations. He stressed the necessity of compassionate leadership in enforcing the law firmly yet understandingly, stating that this embodies the true essence of public service.

Looking ahead, Nartatez instructed police personnel to exercise sound judgment and empathy, particularly when dealing with minor offenses linked to desperation or poverty. He urged police units to work closely with social welfare offices and local government units to provide support in cases driven by economic hardship.