Quezon city: The National Police Commission (Napolcom) has announced the suspension of 12 police officers for 90 days following allegations of their involvement in the disappearance of “sabungeros” or cockfight enthusiasts. This decision was revealed by Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan during a recent press conference.
According to Philippines News Agency, the suspension order, which is detailed in a four-page resolution, was directed to the chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) or his authorized representative to be implemented immediately, with a requirement to submit proof of compliance within five days. The suspended officers include high-ranking officials such as Col. Jacinto Malinao Jr., Lt. Col. Ryan Jay Orapa, and Maj. Mark Philip Almedilla, among others.
Col. Malinao, previously the director of Batangas Provincial Police Office, is under investigation for alleged grave misconduct, grave neglect of duty, and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. The other officers are facing accusations of grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. The resolution, signed by Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla and three Napolcom officials, emphasizes that there is substantial legal and factual basis for the preventive suspension.
The resolution clarifies that the preventive suspension is not a penalty but a measure to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure the availability of evidence and witnesses. This suspension aims to prevent any undue influence or interference in the proceedings.
Whistleblower Julie “Totoy” Patidongan accused the police officers of involvement in the abductions, linking them to businessman Charlie “Atong” Ang, alleged to be the mastermind behind the disappearances. Ang has denied these accusations and has filed countercharges against Patidongan. Meanwhile, relatives of the missing enthusiasts have filed murder and illegal detention complaints against Ang and others with the Department of Justice.
