Quezon city: The National Police Commission (Napolcom) on Thursday said they are also looking into several police generals for their possible involvement in the disappearance of "sabungeros" or cockfight enthusiasts.
According to Philippines News Agency, during a press conference at the Napolcom headquarters in Quezon City, Napolcom Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer Rafael Vicente Calinisan stated that the investigation does not solely rely on the statement of accused-turned-whistleblower Julie 'Dondon' Patidongan. "Sabihin na lang natin 18 'yung kinasuhan ni Totoy (Patidongan), 12 'yung kinasuhan sa ating legal service pero tuluy-tuloy ang imbestigasyon ng Napolcom. Meron tayong natatalisod pa na ilan pang mga pangalan na hindi pa lumalabas sa kaalaman ng publiko and we are pursuing these names until now," Calinisan said, emphasizing the ongoing nature of their investigation.
Calinisan further explained that in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directives, the commission is delving deeper into the disappearances of the missing sabungeros, especially considering the potential involvement of police personnel. "No stones unturned. Ang instruction ng Presidente simple, mag imbestiga ng maayos, walang sacred cows yun ang ginagawa natin at wala tayong kinakatakutan kahit ano pang ranggo yan," he stated, underscoring that the investigation will be thorough and impartial, regardless of rank.
Additionally, Calinisan revealed that police generals are currently under investigation. He noted, "Kasama siguro doon para aware na rin kayo may mga heneral tayong iniimbestigahan. So sa Tagalog antay ka lang sir, nasa chapter 1 pa lang tayo, may chapter 2," indicating that the investigation is still in its early stages.
Earlier this week, the Napolcom suspended 12 police officers implicated by Patidongan in the case for 90 days. Among those suspended are Col. Jacinto Malinao Jr., Lt. Col. Ryan Jay Orapa, and Maj. Mark Philip Almedilla, alongside other officers ranging from Executive M/Sgt. to Cpl. The suspension is part of an ongoing investigation into grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. However, the resolution clarified that the preventive suspension does not equate to a determination of guilt against the officers.
