Sabugaa realized how critical it is for police officers like them to learn basic life support (BLS) because it will be useful in emergency situations similar to what they experienced.
He hopes that by doing so, ordinary citizens will take the time to learn BLS.
"Para kita pud ta sa atong buhaton, or if naa may mahitabo sa atong mga silingan," Sabugaa explained.
He also hopes that this will boost the morale of his fellow officers, encouraging them to serve and protect the public in any situation where they are needed.
According to the father, his son hasn't eaten since the morning of the previous day. They immediately let the man board the police vehicle and drove him to the Southern Philippine Medical Center (SPMC). With the need to provide "first aid" to the child, Sabugaa volunteered his knowledge of search and rescue operations.
"Nagguot nami didtoa. Wa nami nagkadimao. Di na mahitsura, basta ako gi-perform nako ang first aid," he said over the phone to SunStar Davao.
He administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). After three attempts, the child awoke and vomited, assisting in the child's revival.
Everyone in the mobile patrol shouted for joy, and the father stopped crying and thanked the team non-stop until they reached SPMC for proper treatment and medication of the infant.
Sabugaa wasn't expecting that he would be able to perform something way beyond his duty.
It was a miracle indeed, he said.
"Pasalamat ko sa ginoo kay nabuhi gyud ang bata. Wala ko nag-expect na mabuhi pa siya," the police said.
Despite his previous experience in basic life-saving, it was a nerve-racking moment for him. But in every crisis situation, presence of mind is a must.
Sabugaa personally understood the father's situation as he is a father himself and that he couldn't bear the pain if a similar situation would happen to his kids.
Based on their last communication, the child was expected to be discharged on Thursday, September 22.
His notable and selfless act was lauded by his superior.
In a press release from the Police Community Affairs and Development Group (PCADG) Davao Region, the father was a resident from Barangay Apokon in Tagum City, Davao del Sur.
PLtCol. Jacy Jay Francia, Force Commander of the 2nd Davao Sur Provincial Mobile Force Company, commended his men for being a Good Samaritan to someone in a desperate situation.
Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 Director PBGen Benjamin Silo Jr. also lauded the team of Sagubaa and thanked them for their assistance, which had given the toddler a chance to live.
Silo, in a press conference on Wednesday, September 21, said they will be given recognition for their noble act.
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