By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Internal Affairs Service (IAS) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a motu proprio investigation into last week’s shootout in Puerto Princesa City, Palawan, which left two police officers and a Bureau of Corrections (BuCor) jail guard dead.
The probe, conducted with the PNP Special Investigation Team, will examine possible violations of operational procedures, including claims that responding personnel were out of uniform, used private vehicles, and were possibly under the influence of alcohol. It will also look into potential lapses in supervision.
“We will pursue the truth relentlessly — without fear or favor. No badge, no rank, and no circumstance will shield anyone from accountability,” PNP inspector general, lawyer Brigido Dulay, said in a statement Wednesday.
“If there were abuses committed, they will be exposed, and those responsible will answer fully before the law,” he added.
Dulay said the investigation “will be thorough, impartial, and guided solely by evidence.”
“We will not hesitate to recommend the strongest sanctions against any policeman who betrays the oath to serve and protect,” he said.
The shootout stemmed from a request for police assistance following a mauling incident at a wake, where some intoxicated attendees attacked two individuals.
The involved police personnel have been disarmed and placed under restrictive custody pending the investigation and filing of appropriate administrative charges.
Police Regional Office-4B (Mimaropa) chief Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua Jr. said 105 police officers were relieved from their posts to give way for the probe.
The IAS is also examining possible command responsibility, in line with existing rules, to determine whether supervisory lapses contributed to the incident.
The IAS urged witnesses and concerned citizens to cooperate with authorities to help establish the full facts of the case. (PNA)
