Manila: National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairman and Executive Officer Rafael Calinisan said he took offense to attempts by two groups to influence the commission's ongoing investigation into the alleged involvement of 12 police officers in the high-profile case of the missing 'sabungeros' or cockfighting aficionados.
According to Philippines News Agency, Calinisan stated that the Napolcom has received credible information pointing to two groups allegedly trying to interfere with the direction of the inquiry. "I found both approaches insulting. I will decide on these cases based on the evidence at hand, based on our investigations, and ever mindful of due process to all concerned. We will be fair. We will dispose of this case without fear or favor," he said.
The Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service of the Napolcom is currently evaluating the counter-affidavits submitted on Monday by the 12 active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP). These were filed in response to the administrative complaints lodged by whistleblower Julie "Totoy" Patidongan.
Calinisan emphasized that the Napolcom will not be deterred by external pressures and will allow the evidence to speak for itself. He also encouraged individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist in ensuring that justice is served. "This investigation is being handled with the highest degree of integrity. We owe that to the families of the missing individuals and to the Filipino people," he said.
Calinisan earlier disclosed that two groups are trying to get the investigation fixed - a cockfighting boss who is allegedly trying to bribe police officers and the group of a local government executive who wants to clear his name by finding ways to fix his case. He said it was the brother of the local government executive who had contacted him, offering "information" on the killings and alleged involvement of a police officer, but "implying that his brother was not involved in the sabong (cockfight) case."
"He then later called up a person very, very close to me, and asked if I could lawyer for them in the potential criminal case, or if my former law partners can lawyer for them," he said, adding that the person close to him responded it was "malabo (unlikely)" for that to happen.
Despite these efforts, Calinisan assured the public that the commission remains unwavering in its commitment to impartiality, transparency, and due process. "Hindi ako papayag, hindi tayo papa-areglo. Siguro ang mensahe ko na lang dun sa dalawang grupo eh huwag niyo na hong subukan. Klaro po ang utos sa amin ng Presidente na no cover-ups, no stone unturned. Kami po sa Napolcom hindi papayag na papa-impluwensya sa kahit na kanino. Hindi po kami natatakot, wala po kaming uurungan (I will not agree, we will not settle. Maybe my message to the two groups is don't even try. The President clearly ordered us no cover-ups, no stone unturned. We, at Napolcom, will not be influenced by anyone. We are not afraid, we have nothing to back down from)," he added.
Calinisan said the 12 police officers may face administrative charges for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. The Napolcom, he said, would release its decision on the matter in 60 days.
The 12 officers were among the 15 police personnel held under restrictive custody.
