Ilocos norte: Acting Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has initiated summary dismissal proceedings against a police corporal implicated in the murder of a barangay kagawad (village councilor) and his partner in San Nicolas, Ilocos Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP’s Internal Affairs Service is collaborating with local police to investigate administrative cases against the officer, who was apprehended in a follow-up operation. The officer is accused of involvement in the killings of Joshua Bernardo, a 26-year-old barangay kagawad, and his 30-year-old partner, Eloisa Pagaduan Bonilla.

Lt. Gen. Nartatez assured the public that the officer will face both criminal and administrative charges, emphasizing that justice will be pursued to the fullest extent. He extended condolences to the victims’ families and reaffirmed the PNP’s commitment to accountability, stating, “The law applies equally to everyone, and those who abuse their authority will be held accountable.”

The ongoing investigation seeks to determine if others were involved in the crime. Initial findings revealed that the victims were ambushed at their home by two assailants on a motorcycle. The attack resulted in the immediate death of Bernardo and the subsequent death of Bonilla at a hospital. A third victim, Mark John Bernardo, remains hospitalized with injuries.

The assailants fled the scene, but authorities later arrested a police officer linked to the attack. Nartatez reiterated the PNP’s dedication to internal cleansing and maintaining public trust, declaring, “We are serious in our internal cleansing efforts. Any member of the police force found guilty of violating the law will face the consequences of their actions.”