Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) announced that Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz, former Director of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), has been reassigned as the chief of the Soccsksargen regional police. The PNP clarified that this transfer is not connected to claims of mishandling the investigation into the missing ‘sabungeros’ (cockfight aficionados) case.

According to Philippines News Agency, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Jean Fajardo addressed the media at Camp Crame, defending Macapaz against accusations that his removal from the CIDG was due to compromising the investigation into the case of the missing sabungeros. Fajardo emphasized that Gen. Macapaz was merely fulfilling his duties and that the allegations were unjust.

Fajardo recounted that PNP chief Gen. Nicolas Torre III personally requested Macapaz to lead the CIDG, citing his extensive experience as an intelligence officer. Despite Macapaz’s initial reservations, he was appointed to the CIDG as it was deemed beneficial for the organization.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla recently requested Gen. Torre to relieve a police commander involved in the investigation. However, Remulla did not specify the individual, and Fajardo affirmed that Macapaz was not the officer in question.

Fajardo further clarified that Macapaz’s transfer was a personal request and not due to external pressure. With his intelligence background, Macapaz is expected to effectively combat smuggling operations in the Mindanao region, aligning with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to tackle smuggling issues.

The PNP spokesperson assured the public that the organization remains committed to resolving the missing sabungeros case and ensuring justice for the victims and their families. Fajardo emphasized that the PNP will not be swayed by personal interests and will follow the evidence in their investigation.