Tuesday, November 25, 2008

Member of notorious robbery roup arrested by NCR-CIDG

Miami
November 26, 2008
Story: Member of notorious robbery roup arrested by NCR-CIDG

National Capital Region Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (NCR-CIDG) arrested a suspected member of Waray-waray robbery group last November 20, 2008.

NCR-CIDG Chief Sr. Supt Isagani Nerez identified the suspect as Edwin Cui, alias Atud/Thunder. He was arrested by the virtue of arrest warrants issued by different courts. The arrest was not immediately disclosed pending operations for the arrest of other suspects.

He was arrested at Samahan Buklod Bahay Subdivision, Bgy. Tartiara, Silang, Cavite at around 5:30 am last Nov. 20. A warrant of arrest for robbery with violence, signed by Manila RTC Br 42 Hon Judge Velasco Marco, paved the way for Cui’s arrest.

He was arrested by NCRCIDU elements, augmented by ISAFP and Cavite PPO personnel.

Nerez added that Cui was an active participant in the June 18, 2008 robbery at Rustan Supermarket at Harrizon Plaza, Manila where his group carted Php368,200, several firearms, hand-held radios of security guards, who were likewise injured during the heist.

He also admits his involvement in the raid of the Magnolia Foods in Laguna in 2005 and at McMir Foods in 2005 where his gang, led by Billy Velasquez carted a total of Php210,000; another robbery at Rustans store in 2003; a payroll holdup of a construction firm in Caloocan City in 2005; a robbery holdup of a cooperative bank in Sta Maria, Bulacan where his group were killed in a shoot out; a robbery holdup of the payroll of a plastic firm in Binondo in 2006 where three (3) of his cohorts were killed in an encounter with the police; a robbery at the RC Cola factory where he received 50,000 pesos as his share and where a security guard was killed by his gang.

Nerez also said that Cui was a part of the gang that robbed the BDO branch in Binondo where half a million pesos were divested; kidnapping for ransom of a Chinese scion in Pampanga; and the hijacking of a plastic shipment in Pasig in 2006.

four dead including two soldiers in road accident at SCTEX

Miami
November 26, 2008
Story: four dead including two soldiers in road accident at SCTEX

Two private individuals and two soldiers, members of Philippine Army, got killed after their vehicles collided at Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) Tuesday night, police officials said.

The incident occurred at around 7:00 pm along SCTEX at the vicinity of Barangay Manuali, Porac, Pampanga of November 25.

Based on the report of Sr. Supt. Oscar Albayalde, Chief of Regional Operations and Plans Division in Region 3, the vehicles involved are Mitshubishi Outlander (CJK-610) and M35 6x6 military truck owned by 3rd Infantry Battalion, 7th Infantry Division of Philippine Army. Both vehicles are in north direction.

The casualties were identified as Apolinario Bernabe, driver of the Outlander, and his wife Maria Teresa Bernabe. They are the only passengers of the Outlander. Since they both died on the spot, it was not known where they are heading to.

Passengers riding at the military truck were identified as Private First Class (PFC) Jason Fajardo who is driving the truck, Private (PVT) Lorenzo Gazzingan, PFC Mayolito Calaquian and PFC Alex Franco.

Based on the investigation, the Outlander was behind the military truck, loosed control then collided at the back of the said truck. The military truck also loose its control, both vehicles hit on the steel bar of the shoulder of the road then turn turtle.

Calaquian also died on the spot because of the impact when they hit the steel bar, while Fajardo died at the hospital while undergoing medical treatment at St. Rafael Foundation and Medical Center at Mabalacat, Pampanga.

Both Gazzingan and Franco are confined at the hospital recuperating.

Call center owner abducted but later released after paying ransom money

Miami
November 25, 2008
Story: Call center owner abducted but later released after paying ransom money

Kidnapped victim was released hours after she was abducted after her husband paid for the ransom money asked by the kidnappers.

In the report of Supt. Mafelino Bazaar, chief of police of Binan, he identified the victim as Lorangeli Ravaja, 39, owner of Givalink International Chatters, located at #402 Don Pablo Subdivision, Brgy. San Vicente.

The incident took place at around 10:20 am last November 24, 2008. Based on the statements of the people at their office, three men armed with 45 caliber, knife, and handcuffs. The men identified themselves as members of PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, and they are looking for Jorly, the husband of Lorangeli.

The woman introduced herself as the husband of Jorly the person that they are looking for. The suspects put handcuffs on Lorangeli and said that she is being arrested for violation of anti-cyber sex law, she was brought in white Mitsubishi Lancer (PCU-112).

The employees of the Givalink, reported the incident to the police but the police did not managed to arrest anyone of the alleged kidnappers.

At around 2:00 pm, the police saw the used getaway vehicle at Brgy. Macabling, Sta. Rosa City.

Bazar said, the victim was released at around 7:25 pm of the same date in a fast food chain in Paseo Sta. Rosa but he do not personally know if they paid ransom.

But according to some sources the husband paid for P350,000 as ransom money. Initially the suspects are asking for P2 million but the family said they cannot afford it.

The CIDG in CALABARZON is denying that there people made a raid at the office of Givalink last Monday.

Survey says, most Filipino people oppose amendments on Constitution if this will mean extension of term for the President, Vice-President, Senate and

Miami
November 25, 2008
Story: Survey says, most Filipino people oppose amendments on Constitution if this will mean extension of term for the President, Vice-President, Senate and Congress

Social Weather Station (SWS) President Mahar Mangahas, presented at the committee hearing of the committee on Constitutional Amendments the survey that they conducted from September 30 to October 4, 2008, that most Filipinos oppose charter change especially if this will mean extension of office of the Arroyo administration.

Mangahas cited, “A solid 78% in Metro Manila are opposed to a charter change that will allow Pres. Arroyo to continue as chief official of the Philippines after June 30, 2010.”

The survey used face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults divided into random samples of 300 each in Metro Manila, the balance of Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

Opposition to such a charter change is 70% in the Visayas, 62% in the Balance of Luzon and 54% in Mindanao. Opposition is also high in all classes: it is 67% in class ABC, 66% in class E, and 63% in class D (masses).

Those who want the President's present term of office changed consist of 32% who prefer it shortened, and only 5% who want it lengthened.

In line with this, Atty. Neri Colmenares of National Union of People’s Lawyers (NULP) said that their group learned that the committee on constitutional amendments is already deliberating a resolution that would extend the term of the Congress and of the President.

He said that there is a House Resolution 550 penned by Batangas Cong. Hermilando Mandanas, that was referred on the said committee last August 2008.

Colmenares said “The HR 550 included the postponement of the 2010 elections, the expansion of terms of members of Congress and the extension (from three years to four years) of the current term of all public officials, including President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, to June 30, 2011." He added it was not justified the need of it.

Congressman Victor Ortega, Chair of Committee on Constitutional Amendments said they are not discussing the said resolution. In fact, Ortega was not aware that there was such a resolution extending their term.

Law experts said timing on the talks of charter change is questionable

Miami
November 25, 2008
Story: Law experts said timing on the talks of charter change is questionable

Law experts that were invited as resource speakers at the committee hearing for charter change at the House of Representatives said that it is not yet time to talk about amending the constitution.

Present during the committee hearing of the Committee on Constitutional Amendments were former University of the Philippines President Jose Abueva, Lyceum University College of Law Dean Pacifico Agabin, Dr. Gaudioso Sosmena of the Local Government Development Foundation, Professor Roland Simbulan of UP's Development Studies and Public Management, political analyst Ramon Casiple, Mahar Mangahas of Social Weather Station.

The aim of the committee is to have public consultations on their view about charter change.

Abueva said, “People and media are against Charter Change initiated by the House or the Senate or both, because they believe the legislators are self-serving. Indeed the people are also distrustful of our senators and representatives.”

Abueva also said he propose Constitutional Convention (Con-Con) rather than Constitutional Assembly (Con-Ass) so that the members on the convention will be chosen by the people against Con-Ass where in the two houses (Senate and House) will have to amend the Constitution.

He added that there are fears that the term of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will go beyond 2010.

Abueva also asks how can Congress propose the amendments to the people in a National Plebiscite before 2010. He said even if the Congress can gather ¾ majority to propose its amendments the senate is not likely to join because political and popular opposition to Charter Change (Cha-Cha) still remains.

Meanwhile, Simbulan said, “Any move to amend the constitution will always be subjected to suspicion and the objection on it will become stronger.”

Simbulan added that the perception on amending the constitution is all about self-interest of the people in the government.

Agabin on the other hand, remind them that if they will push through with Constitutional Assembly, both Senate and House can meet jointly but in terms of voting they will do it separately. He also talked about the concept of legitimacy which he puts in three characterizations; legal which involves legal norms in amending a constitution; sociological which give stress on respecting its citizens and moral which claim of authority ascertain by law.

They are one in saying that the Constitution should be amended but not so soon or before 2010 elections. The resource speakers want to have a charter change after the 2010 elections so that the suspicions on longing the term of Arroyo administration.

“Our people deserve a better governance,” Abueva commented.

Congressman Victor Ortega, Chair of Committee on Constitutional Amendments said that all resolutions pertaining to constitutional amendments will have to go in process,” there will be no shortcuts or surprises.”

The process he is referring to is that a resolution should be submitted to secretary general then to Committee on Rules to be referred at the plenary and referred on to what committee the resolution would be fall.

The militant groups like Kilusang Mayo Uno, Urban Poor Associates, Bayan, Black & White movement were also represented and expressed their feelings on opposition to charter change.

Juan Lagman representing the Urban Poor Asociates said they meet some people living in squatters area somewhere in Tandang Sora to ask about their view about charter change. On the 60 people that they approached, only 9 responded to their question on charter change. Out of 9, only 1 seems to understand the charter change.

Agabin reminded that the members of Congress should have a broader vision on amending the constitution because they know the needs of their constituents and it should reflect moral values.

Monday, November 24, 2008

Two dead, one in critical condition after a truck fell in a ravine in Benguet

Miami
November 24, 2008
Story: Two dead, one in critical condition after a truck fell in a ravine in Benguet

Another tragic road accident occurred which lead to the death of two people and seriously wounding an individual when an 18-wheeler truck that they are riding fell in a ravine in Benguet.

The incident happened at around 10:05 pm of Sunday, November 23, along Baguio-Vizcaya national highway in Sitio Bingo, Barangay Loacan, Itogon (municipality), Benguet.

According to SPO3 Rodrigo Angeles investigator at Itogon Police Station, the truck has experienced mechanical problem that loose the break of the truck then fell in about 130 feet ravine.

The victims who were dead on the spot were identified as Lino Ejorcadas, 40, resident of Taguig and Reynaldo Galangue, 49, resident of Tondo, Manila. Ejorcadas is the driver of the truck while Galangue is one of his helpers.

The other victim is identified as Richard Adlawan, 21, helper, resident of Quezon City, was in critical condition after he sustained fractured bones on both of his feet. Angeles said, Adlawan jumped from the truck when they were about to fall at the ravine. He is now confined at Baguio General Hospital.

Angeles described the trailer truck carrying two container vans about 20-feet long. The said container vans were supposed to be delivered at Ambuclao Dam which is located in Bucod, another municipality of Benguet.

The container vans will be used as office room.

Angeles said, Ejorcadas and Galangue died because they were crushed by the container vans. The investigator added that when the truck fell, the container vans were removed at the truck and it fell at the bumper of the truck which hit Ejorcadas and Galangue.

Friday, November 21, 2008

Four alleged bank robbers arrested by NCRPO intelligence

Miami
November 21, 2008
Story: Four alleged bank robbers arrested by NCRPO intelligence

Intelligence operatives of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) have blocked the plan of the alleged bank robbers who will stage a heist when they arrested four suspects in a parking lot of ABC Complex in Guadalupe, Makati City on Thursday, November 20, at around 8:00 am.

NCRPO Chief, Police Director Leopoldo N Bataoil identified the arrested persons as Armando Deneno y Landero, alias Rolando Payumo Y Noya, alias Dondon and Popoy, a native of Ormoc City and resident of Cubao, Quezon City; Dioniso Espina y Superior, alias George Garcia y Suralde, native of Palompon, Leyte and resident of Cubao, Quezon City; Benjamin Centeno y Cortez, alias Hernando Roxas, native of San Ildefonso, Bulacan, and Edgar Cayanan y Acedera, alias Edwin Lopez y Cruz, native of Pampanga and resident of Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan.

Bataoil said they received information that would help to locate the Espina. Espina has a standing warrant of arrest in Quezon City Regional Trial Court Branch 216 for carnapping and Illegal possession of firearms at Branch 105. According to police reports as well, Espina is involved in series of robbery incidents at the Metro.

Bataoil said that following a lead, elements of Regional Police Intelligence Operations Units (RPIOU) launched an operation to arrest Dionisio Espina.

Investigators revealed that the tracking operation lead NCRPO operatives to the parking lot of ABC Comples in Guadalupe, Makati City where RPIOU operatives served the warrant of arrest for Espina.

Bataoil said, Espina tried to resist and attempted to draw his firearm. Espina’s other companions where were on board 1996 gray Toyota Corolla (UJY 856) were also arrested during the operations.

Recovered from the suspects are four .45 caliber pistol, one without serial number while the rest has serial number; six (6) magazines for Cal. 45; and Forty Two (42) pieces of Cal. 45 live ammunitions.

Upon verification with other police units, it was established by positive identification of witnesses that the arrested suspects were involved in the November 11, 2008 robbery with homicide incident of Rhea Alcala, a Promo Girl of A&P Services in Pasig City where they robbed the victim of P600,000; the August 28, 2008 foiled bank robbery of UCPB in Makati City; and the July 11, 2008 robbery of an armored van in Market! Market!, Fort Bonifacio , Taguig City .

Appropriate case for Robbery with Homicide for the Pasig City incident was filed by the Pasig City Police Office while case for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Ammunitions will be filed by the RPIOU.

Thursday, November 20, 2008

NCRPO held a symbolic torch run for the transformation advocacy within the PNP

Miami
November 21, 2008
Story: NCRPO held a symbolic torch run for the transformation advocacy within the PNP

Police Director General Jesus Verzosa, chief of the Philippine National Police leads a Torch Run in National Capital Region Police Office Friday morning for its advocacy on the transformation of each PNP personnel down to the station units.

The Torch Run at the NCRPO was the first leg of the transformation caravan of the PNP. The next leg will be in Region 1, date is yet to be announced.

When Verzosa was still the deputy director for Administration before becoming Chief PNP, one of his projects is the Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) wherein it will help PNP to turn more into a more capable, effective, and credible police service.

“We endeavour an advocacy campaign. The torch run is a symbol of reform to all 17 Regional offices to inspire, motivate, courage and to never loose hope for our policemen,” Police Director Edgardo Acuna, Director for Program Management Office (PMO) said.

The new NCRPO chief who was only installed last Wednesday, Director General Leopoldo Bataoil said that the police should think of their community in able to transform for the good of the people.

Bataoil also said that there are three dimensions to consider in able to do the transformation, “physical dimension, mental dimension, and moral and spiritual dimension.” He explained that in physical, friendly environment is needed for the police to have positive attitude on his work.

In mental dimension, Bataoil gave an example of an investigator. He said an investigator must know what to do whenever there is a crime to solve, must know to whom he should file a case against to who. He believes that tis will be achieved in proper training.

In moral and spiritual dimension, Bataoil said a police should have a conscience, “Without it, a police cannot perform, very well. And a training cannot help for him to be a very good policeman.”

Bataoil also said that the old policemen are becoming forgetful of their duty that is why a discussion on transformation is needed among them at all levels of command.

The handover of PNP Torch Run was meant to emphasize the transformation envisioned by the ITP continues even if there is a change in leadership.

Aside from the advocacy of the ITP, the Torch Run aims to promote to the PNP personnel and concerned stakeholders the PNP’s various projects that are meant to resolve organizational and systematic dysfunction of the PNP, improve the morale and welfare of the personnel, and strengthen the law enforcement capability of the PNP.

It also aims to present to the public the concept of a comprehensive and holistic approach to institute reform to the PNP with its honest to goodness assessment of its current state to encourage public support and cooperation in the realization of its key result areas and priority projects under the ITP.


Graced the event of the torch run, Verzosa, Acuna, Bataoil, Police Director German Doria Director for Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR), Chief Supt. Raul Bacalzo Director for Investigation and Detective Management (DIDM) and Police Director Silverio Alarcio Director for Operations.

The 5 km torch run started at around 5:20 am at the FTI Complex in Taguig City and ended at Camp Bagong Diwa, NCRPO office also in Tagiug City at around 6:10 am.

Two mini-busses in Cavite were burned

Miami
November 20, 2008
Story: Two mini-busses in Cavite were burned

Two mini-busses were reportedly burned by still unidentified person Thursday morning.

The incident occurred at around 4:00 am but the police only received the report at around 9:00 am. Based from their initial investigation it seems a family fued occurred within the family.

But, Chief Inspector Rafael Legaspi, deputy chief of Navoleta police station in Cavite said they will still confirm the doubts of the family.

The mini-busses with plate number DXB-238 and DVG-765 that were burned are owned by Mrs. Pining Reyes. It was burned at their garage in Cuevas Subdivision, barangay Salcedo Uno, Navoleta, Cavite.

The route of the said bus is from Naic, Cavite to Zapote, Alabang or vice-versa.

“What Reyes is saying, a relative of them could be the person behind the incident. Because the lot they used as the garage of their busses were owned by another relative. And the relative they are referring to wants to get back the said lot,” Legaspi said in a phone interview.

Based on some witnesses account, they saw two men riding in one motorcycle who went at the area before the incident happened.

Estimated cost of damages is about P500,000 as the bus was totally burned.

PNP and the arson investigation of Monkayo fire is investigating the real motive behind the incident.

9 individuals were rescued after a landslide in Compostela Valley

Miami
November 20, 2008
Story: 9 individuals were rescued after a landslide in Compostela Valley

Nine persons were rescued after a landslide occurred in Compostela Valley, Thursday morning, November 20, 2008.

Sr. Supt Ronald dela Rosa, provincial director of Compostela Valley said the landslide happened at Park 17 in Mt Diwata village, Monkayo (town) which destroys the house of the Elimino family.

The landslide was reportedly happened at around 6:00 am.

The police personnel assigned at Mt. Diwata police sub-station of Monkayo immediately rescued four individuals namely James Tumala, 16; Grace Sorilla, 25; JC Atun, 22; and JunJun Ayco, 21.

The at around 10:00 am they recovered five more individuals identified as Felix Elimino, Michael CaƱete, Rex Gomez, Ariel Daghay and Samuel Catzo. Also suffered minor injuries.

Also affected at the landslide about 10 to 15 houses.

Dela Rosa added that they are closely monitoring another impending landslide in the area.

Wednesday, November 19, 2008

One killed two injured in a road accident in Tagaytay city

Miami
November 19, 2008
Story: One killed two injured in a road accident in Tagaytay city

A man got killed wile two of his female companions were still unconscious after their private vehicle collided in a passenger bus Wednesday noon.

The incident occurred at around 12:00 noon at Aguinaldo highway, barangay Silang, Crossing West, Tagaytay City.

The vehicles involved a Toyota Innova (ZLZ-921) and a passenger bus San Agustin (TYM-830).

Supt. William Segun, chief of police of Tagaytay City only identifies the injured as Florencia Bayot and Chelsie Joy Alba who are both still unconscious at Ospital ng Tagaytay and was the passenger of the Innova. While their driver died on the spot. The driver is still unidentified because he has no identification with him.

Initial investigation showed that the two vehicles are both traversing the Aguinaldo highway when they collided, head-on because the Innova is speeding on the road.

The Innova is heading towards Silang, Cavite, not yet known where it came from, while the bus came from tagaytay City and was about to go to Mendez.

It still unknown how many passengers are there inside the bus, but there are no reportedly hurt from them.

The case is still under investigation.

PNP make a revamp after its number 2 man go on non-duty status, NCRPO gets new chief

Miami
November 19, 2008
Story: PNP make a revamp after its number 2 man go on non-duty status, NCRPO gets new chief

The Philippine National Police make a revamp on their high and key positions after its number two man decides to go on non-duty status in preparation for his retirement.

Police Deputy Director General Emmanuel Carta, chief for Administration, decided to go on non-duty status last Monday, November 17, so that he will have enough time to prepare for all the clearances he needs to prepare for his retirement benefits. He will retire on January 1, 2009 on mandatory age of 56.

Carta is one of the PNP delegates who went to Russia last October 6 to 11 to attend the 77th Interpol Assembly. Last November 3, Carat has returned, in full, the travel allowance he received for the Russia trip which is amounting to P274,000.

Upon his non-duty status, Carta is replaced by Deputy Director General Ismael Rafanan, the PNP chief for operations.

Rafanan is replaced by Director Geary Barias, the chief directorial staff (TCDS).

Barias position as chief of directorial staff is replaced by Director Jefferson Soriano who assumed the post as chief of National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) last September 29 then was passed on to Director Leopoldo Bataoil yesterday (November 19, 2008). Bataoil was the chief of Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR).

On his speech, Bataoil told his people not to waste time, “make things happen the way it must.” He vows to continue the plan that was laid by Soriano when he assumed the NCRPO post.

“I'd like to thank him (Soriano) for setting the tone for a rightful measure or approach against criminality and we will blend it with the community, empower the community. We will now unleash the power of the community,” Bataoil said.

On his part, Soriano said he wants to see “the neutralization of the robbery groups that have been victimizing our people and even desecrating the police uniform” be resolved. He even said that the robbery incident at University of the Philippines Diliman “left a hole in my heart that can only be filled by the decisive neutralization of these notorious robbery gangs.”

On the other hand, the PNP said that the revamp has nothing to do with the current controversy that they are facing right now—the Euro mess.

“It has nothing to do with the present problem or the present concern that we have. This is a normal movement, the institution is a dynamic and very resilient one and we have to fill in the gaps, especially the very sensitive ones,” Soriano said.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Cop killed, two civilians wounded in shootout in Davao City

Miami
November 18, 2008
Story: Cop killed, two civilians wounded in shootout in Davao City

A policeman got killed and two civilians were got injured in Davao City, Tuesday morning by still unidentified armed men.

The police that was killed was identified as SPO1 Romy Rivera assigned in Sasa (town), Davao City police station. He was gunned down at around 3:30 am by two unidentified men riding in re motorcycle at Panakan relocation, Km 13, barangay Panakan, Sasa, Davao City.

According to Chief Inspector Querubin Manalang, spokesman of Police Regional Office 11, the place of the incident is approximately 50 meters away from Sasa police station.

The two civilians that were injured were identified as Rey Cabague, 40, and Reymundo Bahade who both sustained gunshot wounds on their feet and thigh. They are now in Davao Medical Center for medical treatment.

Based on initial report the two were only eating at a nearby food stall and was only hit by stray bullet.

Manalang said, the gunshot wounds of Rivera are on his body and one in head which are all fatal that lead to his instant death. Rivera was on his way to Sasa police station when the men riding in tandem came and fired at him.

The police recovered eight empty shells of .45 and one empty shell of 9mm.

Monday, November 17, 2008

American national died hours after being arrested in Cebu

Miami
November 18, 2008
Story: American national died hours after being arrested in Cebu

An American national died last Saturday afternoon, hours after being arrested by policemen for maltreatment that was filed against him by his Filipina live-in partner.

A 42-year old Filipina live in partner complained against the American National named Paul Cortis Agostinelli, 36, for maltreatment last Saturday, November 15, 2008 at around 8:00 am.

The police arrested Agostinelli at around 9:20 am of the same date at barangay Binaobao, Bantayan, Cebu. Inspector Almerante Bacayo, chief of police of Bantayan police station said even the neighbours were complaining against him for creating public disturbance.

Bacayo said upon detaining Agostinelli, he became wild inside the detention cell of Bantayan Police Station. “While inside the detention cell, he is reaching for the wire at the fluorescent lamp at the ceiling we believe he wants to be electrocuted,” he said.

Because of this, Bacayo said he ordered to turn off the lights so that Agostinelli will not be electrocuted everytime he will reach for the fluorescent lamp.

Later in the afternoon, at around 2:00 pm they found Agostinelli already unconscious inside the detention cell. He was rushed to Batayan District Hospital and was revived for about 30 minutes but later pronounced dead at around 3:20 am.

Bacayo said the findings of the hospital said that Agostinelli died of cardiac arrest.

Friday, November 14, 2008

Tricycle driver killed after being dragged by a bus in La Union

Miami
November 14, 2008
Story: Tricycle driver killed after being dragged by a bus in La Union

A tricycle driver died Friday dawn after being hit by a bus who wants to overtake in a national highway in La Union.

The incident occurred at around 3:30 am at the intercession of National Highway and Salangga Avenue in Barangay Norte, San Fernando City, la Union.

According to Supt. Pedro Obaldo, Chief of Police of San Fernando City Police Station, the vehicles involved are tricycle and Farinas Bus (AVD-151 with body number 84) who are both at the right lane of the national highway, north direction.

“Upon reaching the intersection they simultaneously manoeuvred going to the left, the tricycle is about to turn left at Salangga Avenue while the bus wants to overtake the tricycle,” Obaldo explained.

The bus came from Manila and about to go to Laoag.

Because of the impact, the tricycle driver identified as Ronnie Gorteza, 41, died on the spot. He was also dragged by the bus for about 20 meters. The tricycle was total wreck.

Obaldo also said that there is also a private vehicle being parked at the side of the street that was slightly damaged on its left side front.

There were only 15 reportedly passenger of the bus including the driver and the conductor who sustained slight injuries.

The driver of the bus was identified as Leonard Castillo, 44, and will face reckless imprudence resulting to homicide, multiple injuries and damage to properties.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

10 policemen relived as instructors for alleged hazing in Negros Occidental

Miami
November 14, 2008
Story: 10 policemen relived as instructors for alleged hazing in Negros Occidental

Regional Director of Police Regional Office (PRO) 6 Chief Supt. Isagani Cuevas ordered the immediate relief of 10 police instructors for alleged involvement in maltreatment of the police personnel undergoing training.

The 10 are now being investigated at Regional Investigation and Detective Management Division (RIDMD) and they were identified as Inspector Stephen Somosot; Inspector Dianne Grace Aquitana; PO1 Jean Hiponia; PO1 Cherry Lacson; PO1 Annie Rose Tupaz; PO1 Marife Cantomayor; PO1 Ma Lowelyn Moises; PO1 Rhea OƱate; PO1 Rhea Biasa; and PO1 Rowena Pimentel.

The 10 are being detailed as Assistant Instructors for PNP Modified Scout Class 13-2008 and they are also assigned at 6 Regional Mobile Group (RMG). “They remain at the RMG (while being relived) but will not be able to do their work as instructor,” Supt. Ranulfo Demiar, PRO 6 Spokesperson said.

Demiar added that the memorandum on their relief was released last November 10, after 52 trainees, including 23 girls, complains about the incident. The complainants suffered bruises on their bodies based on their medical check-up conducted last November 8.

He also added that the PNP prohibits any maltreatment or hazing to their police personnel who are undergoing any kind of training.

The incident occurred at regional headquarters of 6RMG in Victorias City, Neg Occidental, the place where the PNP modified scout training is being held with total of 244 trainees.

There was no exact date when the incident happened but the training started last October 15, and should end after 45 days.

Dela Paz will attend the hearing on Saturday, says lawyer

Miami
November 13, 2002
Story: Dela Paz will attend the hearing on Saturday, says lawyer

Philippine National Police Ex-comptroller Retired Police Director Eliseo dela Paz will go to the Senate on Saturday to attend the scheduled senate inquiry on the Moscow incident.

Dela Paz was held last October 11 in Moscow International Airport for bringing huge amount of money.

“I'm coordinating with them once Dela Paz is here already. We will go to them,” Atty. Malaya said, legal counsel of dela Paz.

Malaya said his last communication with dela Paz was last two or three days ago while he was still in the province. The lawyer also said that he is already on his way back in Manila.

Last Tuesday evening, when the arrest order was served to Malaya for dela Paz, he said that his client is either in La Union or Bataan to visit some relatives and to assure them that he is ok.

Malaya also said that the wife, Maria Fe, was also being subpoena by the Senate. Malaya said they will ask the Senate not to include the wife because “She is a private person and nothing to do wit it (incident).”

He also confirmed that the money that was seen to dela Paz in Moscow is amounting to 124,000 euros. “The initial was focused on government funds of 105,000, aside from government money you also have your own money.”

He also added, “On the issue on intelligence funds, yes he brought money that came from intelligence funds. He will also go to other parts of Europe to buy equipment. Since they are already in Europe, why not take advantage of it.”

But he refused to tell what kind of equipment it would be.

Cellsite in Tabaco city bombed by NPA rebels

Miami
November 13, 2008
Story: Cellsite in Tabaco city bombed by NPA rebels

A cell site was damaged after members of New People’s Army (NPA) detonated an explosive device in its facility, Wednesday evening.

The incident occurred at around 8:15 pm in barangay Buang, Tabaco City, Albay at the base of the cell site tower owned by Globe Telecoms Inc.

Supt. Jose Capinpin, chief of police of Tabaco City, Albay said that the incident is a work of an NPA.

"The explosion was so powerful that it detached the transmission receiving unit from its concrete base," Capinpin said, adding that the attackers and even riddled the facility with bullets.

Investigation showed that more or less eight armed men stormed the cell site and placed an improvised explosive device at the base of the tower.

Capinpin also said that the motive for the bombing of the cell site is extortion.

Estimated amount on damages is still yet to be determined because the facility is totally damaged according to Capinpin and only the tower was being left.

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

one killed in an encounter with carnappers in Bulacan

Miami
November 13, 2008
Story: one killed in an encounter with carnappers in Bulacan

A suspected carnapper was killed Wednesday after it opened fire to the police officers who tried to stop them for checkpoint in Bocaue, Bulacan.

SPO4 Osias Lobete, chief investigator of Bocaue police station said that they receive information that there is a place in Boacaue wherein different cars are being in and out of a house.

Based on the reports reaching them, the hide out is a house located at Meralco Avenue, barangay Batia, Bocaue, Bulacan.

“The suspects are on board on their black Toyota Hi-Lux (ZKW-467) when they were intercepted along Mac Arthur highway, barangay Binan 1st in Bocaue,” Lobete said.

Based on his explanations, the police are positioned on a checkpoint when the 3 suspects riding at the said vehicle went down and opened fire at them. The police retaliate resulted to the death of one of the suspects identified as Victor Guinto resident of Baliuag, Bulacan. Guinto sustained gunshot wounds on his body.

Two other suspects were able to escape while firing their gun.

No other persons were reported injured on the incident.

Lobete also said, it is believed that the three suspects belonged to Dominguez group who is really engaged in carnapping.

After the incident along Mac Arthur highway, the police went to barangay Batia. The police recovered two other vehicles which are grey Toyota Altis (YGF-216) and red Honda Civic (WJE-890), M-16 rifle, 3 long magazine, 5 short magazine for M-16, 32 pieces of plate numbers believed to be stolen on the vehicles that the group carnapped, laptop computer, base radio, chopped parts of motor vehicles with a windshield broken by a gunshot and different identification cards.

Recovered at the crime scene, .45 caliber and 3 empty shells.

RCBC after six months report (feature)

Miami
November 13, 2008
RCBC after six months report

Six months after the tragedy, relatives of the victims of the RCBC (Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation) massacre in Cabuyao, Laguna are still seeking justice on the tragic death of their love ones.

The tragedy happened last May 16, 2008 between 8:30 to 9:00 am or upon the arrival of the employees. Those who were died on the spot were identified as branch manager Roberto Castro, janitor Juan Leyva, tellers Benjamin Nicdao and Olga Gonzalez, operations assistant Noel Miranda, new accounts officer Teresa Umayam, cashier service head Bernardo Lapaan Jr., security guard Baltazar Aguilando, and a depositor’s representative, Ferdinand Antonio.

The relations manager of the bank, Isagani Pastor, died two days after the incident. All of them sustained gun shout wounds on their head.

Still hurting, some of the relatives do not want to talk about the tragedy. They opted to keep quiet. The auntie of Ma. Teresa Umayam, one of the victims said, looking back at the tragedy makes them more difficult to move on. Umayam was the new accounts officer of RCBC Cabuyao.

“It is still painful for us. We do not want people to keep on asking us what happened. The more they asked us the more it is becoming painful for us,” says of the auntie whom do not want to be name.

The wife of Ferdinand Antonio, Marie Ella do not want to talk about the issue as well. They have two siblings, a girl and boy, ages 8 and 6 respectively.

But Antonio’s cousin, Jane, told the Manila Shimbun that the family did not recover soon because of the incident. She said, although Marie Ella (wife of Antonio) is also working, her income is not sufficient for the needs of their family.

Jane is living now with the Antonio’s taking good care of the children, “No one will take good care of them, instead of hiring a maid, it will be better if a relative like me will look at them because they also do not need to pay me.”

Jane also said that as far as she knew, the management of the RCBC provides money for the schooling of the two children, but on how long would that be and how much the RCBC is giving for the kids, she has no idea. “What I know the RCBC still provides money for the kids,” she said.

Antonio was not an employee of the RCBC, he only went there to send documents to RCBC Cabuyao as instructed by his superiors from Ivoclar Vivante Inc where he was really working. Based on the sworn statement of Shiela Ongotan, they arrived at the bank at around 8:10 am, while Antonio was about to enter the bank a man wearing black jacket opened the door for him, put his arm on the shoulder of Antonio as they both entered the bank.

Antonio failed to go out after. Ongotan has no idea that there is a tragedy happening inside the bank because she did not hear anything. Ongotan only hitched a ride with Antonio because the latter was supposed to go to Sto. Tomas Batangas as part of his itinerary for the day, and Otongan has to go there as well.

For Gloria Leyva, wife of Juan Leyva, the janitor cum messenger of the RCBC in Cabuyao is shouting for justice on the untimely death of her husband. “He is the only person working and providing all our needs. It is very painful for us, but we seek justice.” They have five children, 3 girls and two boys.

Mrs. Leyva also said that with the death of her husband, she did not know where to start. “I do not really work, I only stay at home to take care of the kids because that was Juan wants from me when he was alive, and when he died, I really do not know what our future would be.”

She learned the death of her husband through their neighbours who asked her if Juan is indeed working in RCBC. He neighbours informed her that there is a robbery happened their.

At first, she did not believed that her husband was among the dead inside RCBC because every Friday morning between 9:00 am to 12:00 noon Juan is at the RCBC main office in Ayala Avenue, Makati City to deliver some documents.

“I was confident that he was no longer at the bank when the incident happened,” Mrs Leyva said. Because of the continuing reports on television about the incident, her 17 year old son together with his uncle went to the bank to confirm if Juan is also one of the victims. The two arrived at the bank at around 12:00 noon in time for the Scene of the Crime Operations (SOCO) to remove the bodies inside. There they saw the body of Juan and infirmed Mrs. Leyva about it.

“I hope the suspects only get the money they want, not to the point of killing our (victims) love ones,” Leyva added.

Leyva confirms what Jane earlier told Manila Shimbun that the RCBC provides help for the victims of the massacre. Leyva said she do not know if they have the same scheme or one is different from another. Leyva’s family is receiving P20,000 allowance every month and that will last for three years. What she did, she opened a time deposit account in order to save the money and to gain interest. “I am doing this for the sake of my children.” 4 of their children are already in high school while the youngest is already in Grade 6.

As earlier stated, the incident is already reached its sixth month the case is already filed at Binan Regional Trial Court branch 24 but no progress yet.

According to Supt. Roman CardiƱo, deputy regional director of Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Police Regional Office 4 (CALABARZON) admits that the case is not easy to solve.

“We do not have witnesses at first because all of the employees were killed,” CardiƱo said adding that their hope before was Isagani Pastor, but died two days after staying at the hospital.




But the police were able to identify the suspects through the witnesses who were at the vicinity when the incident happened.

Those who were arrested were Joel dela Cruz, the security guard of the RCBC, Ricardo Gomolon, and Jesus Narvaez. They are now being detained at Binan Provincial Jail. They are facing robbery and multiple murder charges. The case was filed last May 30, 2008.

Then on June 11 an amendment to the original complaint includes Crisanto Alvarez as he voluntarily confessed his participation as lookout in the said incident. He also mentioned the name of Jake Javier, Jun Alvarez, Eugenio Hilario and Montano Tolentino be added in the list of the suspects in this case. Tolentino was killed in an encounter last May 29, 2008 on his residence at barangay Puting Lupa, Calamba City Laguna.

Alvarez also includes the name of Pepito Magsino who was also killed in a shootout in Tanauan City, Batangas.

CardiƱo added that the arraignment on the suspects already held last October 30, dela Cruz, Gomolon and Narvaez all pleaded not guilty.

“There is also Crisanto Alvarez, a self-confessed suspect. He said he was part of the group who robbed the RCBC,” CardiƱo said.

Alvarez is now at the custody of the PNP CALABARZON. The police plans to apply for Alvarez as state witness. The CIDG4A do not want to elaborate on what Alvarez told them as the case is already at the Court and it may affect the hearing.

“We have three kids as witnesses all of them are boys, ages 9, 12 and 13. They are playing in front of the RCBC. In fact one of them even said that the guard whom they call as “Kuya dela Cruz” is the one who told them to stay away from the premises of the bank that day,” CardiƱo relates to Manila Shimbun.

The children are under the custody of the police, they are also planning to file for a witness protection program for the witnesses. They are living at the back of the bank, about 100 meters away.

Residents their do not want to tell stories because they said, “We have nothing to do with the case. We do not know what happened because we did not hear anything, we only learned about it when the police arrived,” said of one of the residents their.

The other reason why they do not want to talk is for the safety of the witnesses because some witnesses lives at that area.

CardiƱo added that employees at Flying-V gas station in Barngay Turbina, Calamba City positively identified Narvaez and another suspect which later identified as Danilo Letoquet as the one who alighted from the get away car that was used by the suspects. Their get away car is silver Mitsubishi Adventure with plate number XHS-341 owned by Nicdao, one of the slain employee of RCBC.

Letoquet was killed in an encounter in San Jose, Batangas last July 7, 2008. He is allegedly a member of Royal Blood Gangsta involved in numerous killings and robbery-hold up.

CardiƱo also said that Jake Javier, Jun Alvarez, Eugenio Hilario and Allan Bago still at-large.

Based on the investigation, according to CardiƱo, dela Cruz is really involved in the incident.

“The theory, based on the investigation, they capture first the guard, Aguinaldo Baltazar, then killed him. The suspects all entered at the back door. Then dela Cruz acted as the still on-duty guard who can open the door for the incoming employees,” CardiƱo said.

He also added that alarm system of the bank is not functioning anymore. It was also reported, it is the routine of the bank to test their alarm every morning and afternoon at no particular time. But for unknown reason, the RCBC Cabuyao branch is not testing their alarm anymore for almost a month.

Also, their close circuit TV did not function on the time of the incident because it is also not functioning anymore.

Since the case is already filed in Court, both the police and the families of the victims are hoping that justice will prevail.

PNP issues memo clarifying that there is no prohibition on the accessibility of the media in blotter but make classifications on what not to release

Miami
November 12, 2008
Story: PNP issues memo clarifying that there is no prohibition on the accessibility of the media in blotter but make classifications on what not to release

In an effort to clarify the misunderstanding occurred between media and the Philippine National Police (PNP) the latter release a memo saying, “as a general rule there is no provision on the accessibility of the public or media to the information contained in the police blotter.”

The clarificatory memorandum released two days after the PNP made a dialogue with media representatives from National Press Club (NPC), Kapisanan ng mga Broadkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) and Volunteers against Crime and Corruption (VACC). On the first memorandum of the PNP, it said that “Police blotter...shall not be made accessible to the public and media without proper authorization...” this irked the media who will be affected in getting information.

But, on the new memo, it clarifies what should be made available to the media and not. Information are not readily accessible unless in compliance with law and proper authorizations are criminal offense wherein the victims are women and children; and if there is an ongoing follow-up operation and releasing its information may compromise the case or the people involved.

Also, if the information in blotter is for record purposes only or if the complainant request for it, the information will be accessible with precaution.

“These information are accessible to the media but with caution. There are certain cases like walk-in complainant, who specifically requested that information should be kept in confidence, and entries, which are for records purposes. We want to point out to the media that there will be certain request,” PNP Spokesman Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said.

The memo also states, the head of office is responsible in providing the media with the information. The Public Information Officer, Duty officer of the day, Desk Sergeant should also do the same.

Bartolome also clarifies that the memo is for their police personnel in lower units, “We are also clarifying that this directive are for PNP personnel and not to prohibit the media on access to information.”

PNP issued directive to improve target hardening measures to prevent rampant bank robberies

Miami
November 12, 2008
Story: PNP issued directive to improve target hardening measures to prevent rampant bank robberies

The Philippine National Police ordered a directive that will help prevent bank robberies happening in Manila.

PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said, “Directorate for Operations Police Director Silverio Alarcio issued a directive to improve target hardening measures and coordinate with the Local Government Units (LGU) and to different banks personnel in an effort to address the problem in bank robbery.”

He explained that the target hardening measures means, “Making it hard for the suspects to penetrate their target area.”

He also added upon renewing of license of the security agencies under PNP Security Agency & Guard
Supervision Division (SAGSD) the PNP will check the skills of the security guards.

“Alertness must be improved security guards should always think something will happen and be prepared for it,” Bartolome said.

He also said that the bank owners should have close circuit TV as ordered by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, “It may be expensive, but it is necessary, it will become an investment for them after all so it would be better if they will have CCTV.”

Meanwhile, the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) already raised reward money to anyone who can give information to the whereabouts of the robbers that victimizing innocent people.

Initially, the NCRPO has P500,000 reward money but Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte added P200,000 to make it P700,000. Other breakdown; P200,000 came from PNP Police Director General Jesus Verzosa, P100,000 from NCRPO, P100,000 from friends of Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Sr. Supt Magtanggol Gatdula and P100,000 from Manila Police District director Chief Superintendent Roberto Rosales.

In relation to this, National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) wants to meet with the University of the Philippines Board of Reagents to discuss security measures inside the campus. UP is independent from the PNP, they have their own “UP Police” base on the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the DILG and the UP requiring the police to stay out of the school’s campuses.

one police officer, two civilians hurt in accidental firing in Iloilo City

Miami
November 12, 2008
Story: one police officer, two civilians hurt in accidental firing in Iloilo City

A police officer and two civilians applying as policemen were reportedly injured after a rifle being tested accidentally went off inside the Philippine National Police camp in Police Regional Office 6.

The incident occurred at around 11:00 am of November 11, 2008 during the conduct of drug test and fingerprinting to the 330 PNP applicants in the regional crime laboratory office in region 6.

The camp of Region 6 is Camp Martin Delgado which is located in Iloilo City.

Based on initial report, Senior Inspector Hilarion Roga, firearm examiner, test fired one 5.56mm rifle with serial number 1887488 at the bullet recovery box located at the office garage, when it accidentally fired which resulted to the wounding of PO1 Loen Cachila, fingerprint examiner and two PNP applicants identified as Hernafe Barrera and Sally Mar Caloyloy, both residents of Capiz.

In a phone interview, Roga said the rifle is subject for test firing. He said, the first time he tested it, there was no problem occurred. He aimed the rifle at the crime lab’s bullet recovery box then fired. On its second time, the gun did not fire. He checked on the problem, pointing the rifle at the ground. When he is about to checked on the bullets it accidentally went off hitting the pavement.

Upon hitting the pavement (made of stone), the stone wreckage went into different direction, hitting three persons.

The rifle is subject for test firing because its owner wants to avail the PNP implemented firearms amnesty program which will expire on November 14, 2008, Friday.

The three victims were taken to Regional Health Service 6 for first aid and were subsequently brought to the Iloilo doctor’s Hospital for further treatment.

Only last Monday, a rifle grenade accidentally exploded while they are having commando training for Special Action Force in Philippine National Police Academy in Camp Castaneda in Silang, Cavite causing the death of PO2Manio Carido and 12 other injured.

IED exploded in North Cotabato, no casualty were reported

Miami
November 12, 2008
Story: IED exploded in North Cotabato, no casualty were reported

A store selling corn and copra (dried coconut) was hit by an improvised explosive device Wednesday morning in North Cotabato, police official said.

The incident occurred at around 4:15 am on the store owned by Jose Roy Mangunay at barangay Poblacion, Pikit, North Cotabato.

Sr. Inspector Elias Dandan, Chief of Police of Pikit, said there were no casualties from the explosion but the lumber in front of the store were damaged because of the impact of the explosion.

Dandan said, Mangunay informed them that exactly a week ago he received an extortion letter asking for money but no amount was indicated. The group introduced themselves to Mangunay as “Red Spider.”

“It is our first time to hear such group, maybe they are new or simply change the name of an old group,” Dandan said in a phone interview with Manila Shimbun.

However, the investigators are looking into an angle if the Red Spider has any connection with Al-Khobar group who is also known to be an extortion group.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Senate sergeant-at-arms failed to arrest dela Paz

Miami
November 11, 2008
Story: Senate sergeant-at-arms failed to arrest dela Paz

The senate sergeant-at-arms arrived at the nati0nal headquarters of the PNP at Camp Crame in Quezon City at around 6:00pm.

Col. Jaime Dimacali of d senate sergeant-at-arms directly went to PNP headquarters support service (HSS)to coordinate on how they can serve the arrest warrant at d quarters of retired police dir eliseo dela paz inside camp crame.

But the chief of HSS, sr. Supt Alberto Alpabeto was not around at the HSS office to assist them. At around 6:20 pm Dimacali decided to go to the national headquarters office. There, he was entertained by the desk officer PO1 Bernard Tupal.

Dimacali said if he can coordinate with the chief of the PNP Police Director General Jesus Verzosa in order to gave the arrest warrant. But instead he was referred to coordinate with Directorate for Police Community Relations Chief, Police Director Leoplodo Bataoil.

Bataoil said Verzosa authorized him to attend to the needs of the sergeant-at-arms. After which, Dimacali and Bataoil had a closed door meeting while waiting for Atty. Noel Malaya, the legal counsel of dela Paz. Malaya arrived at around 7:55 pm.

Malaya said that his client, dela Paz, is currently “out of town.”

“The last time I talked to him was yesterday (Monday, November 10) and he told me that he will only visit some of his relatives to assure them that he is ok and safe,” Malaya said. As far as Malaya said, dela Paz is either in La Union or Bataan.

He also said that his client is already moved out of the quarters inside Camp Cram because dela Paz already retired from service.

Malaya said that the person only left in his quarters are his family (siblings and wife) and they are in the process of moving out all of their things.

Malaya assures Dimacali that dela Paz is not hiding, “We do not intent to snob this arrest order even though we have a pending case before the Supreme Court o the jurisdiction of the Committee on Foreign Relations with regards to the case.”

Dela Paz is expected to come back within two to three days, but Malaya said that he will call on dela Paz immediately to inform him about the arrest warrant and to ask him to return immediately.

Once dela Paz returned to Manila, Malaya assured Dimacali that his client will go directly to the Senate. If not, Dimacali said they have to arrest him.

After Malaya signed the arrest order the Senate sergeant-at-arms already left the office of Bataoil. This was at around 8:20 pm.

Head of SAF ordered investigation on the explosion of firing grenade after the incident happened in PNPA

Miami
November 11, 2008
Story: Head of SAF ordered investigation on the explosion of firing grenade after the incident happened in PNPA

The Philippine National Police Special Action Force head Chief Supt. Leocadio Santiago, Jr. ordered its personnel to stop using their issued rifle grenade pending the result of the investigation after one of each rifle grenade accidentally explodes Monday night that lead to the death of one and injuring several others.

Santiago described the incident as “a freak accident that nobody wanted.” He also said that this is the first time that such incident happened.

He also ordered for the immediate investigation of the incident to know what exactly happened during the training and why it accidentally exploded.

Based on the initial investigation, the training is being held at the PNPA firing range in Camp General Mariano CataƱeda in Silang, Cavite. SAF Commando class 48-2008 student Police inspector Frederick Sa-ao fired the rifle grenade from his M16A1 weapon when it prematurely exploded at gunpoint, wounding him instantly.

SAF Instructor PO2 Mano Carido, 15 meters away from the explosion, was supervising the commando students when he was finally hit in the chest by a shrapnel which cause his death.

As explained, a rifle grenade is inserted at the end of the rifle barrel and is triggered upon firing the rifle where it is supposed to launch away from the rifle and hit a distant target and exploding thereat. But in this case, this does not happened.

On the final report of SIlang Police Station, 12 were only injured and only one was dead.

The said training is part of the module of the SAF Commando Cpurse, a foundation training for every SAF Police personnel.

NAPOLCOM made recommendations to ensure that the incident in Russia will not happen again

Miami
November 11, 2008
Story: NAPOLCOM made recommendations to ensure that the incident in Russia will not happen again

The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) already made recommendations that would ensure that the incident in Moscow will not happen again.

The NAPOLCOM made its recommendation in relation to the release of money of P6.930 million pesos that was used as “contingency funds.” The NAPOLCOM formed an ad hoc committee last October 31 and their report was submitted last November 6.

The ad hoc committee was task to investigate the unauthorized or irregular handling of the fund of P6.930 million cash advance made by PNP ex-comptroller Police Director Eliseo dela Paz and P2.1 million travel allowance.

On the recommendations, the NAPOLCOM wants dela Paz to explain “how the P6.9 million was drawn from the PNP fund and provide the NAPOLCOM with appropriate supporting documentation showing that the fund was properly released.”

The NAPOLCOM is also directing the PNP Finance Service to hold the retirement benefits of dela Paz and those who are part of the delegation, “All retirement benefits of the officers that have retired are being held pending the completion of all this things. There were already two officers that were affected here, dela Paz and (former Regional Director of Police Regional Office 9 Police Director Jaime) Caringal. But the principal involved here is dela paz because of the amount of money he took out from intelligence fund, P6.9 million,” NAPOLCOM Chair Ronaldo Puno said.

The ad hoc committee of the NAPOLCOM also recommends lifestyle check on the PNP delegation to Russia including private individuals who join them. Vice-Chair of the NAPOLCOM Hon. Eduardo Escueta said, “Lifestyle check will be conducted by NAPOLCOM will be guided with the result of the continuing investigation that we are now having and it would be principally conducted on members of delegation and any private individuals includes Tyrone Ng-Arejola also.”

Arejola is the friend of dela Paz who admits that he gave money amounting to 45,000 euros to buy him watch a Roger Dubuis Bi-Retro Chrono Perpetual Calendar and/ or an IWC Portuguese Chrono watch in white gold casing in Vienna, Austria.

“When you do lifestyle check the wives might also be investigated,” Escueta added.

He also said there are certain rules to be follow on doing lifestyle check they might also ask permission from the Court in able to check the bank accounts of the general delegates.

Based on their observations also, it said that it is unusual that the delegates drew their approved travel expenses and allowance (P274,070 each delegate) from the Intelligence fund of the PNP rather than from the programmed travel allocation for the Interpol Conference.

Puno also explained, once a person is travelling and given cash advance, the delegates really do not know where the money came from. “You take it for granted that it would come from maintenance and operating expenses under travel. What happened here, the account did not say maintenance and operations expenses travel, what was drawn for is from intelligence fund, so there is something wrong there, because this is a normal travel why would you withdraw from intelligence expenses.”

Because of what happened the recommendation also stated, “The NAPOLCOM shall formulate and issue the appropriate policy or standard on foreign travels and entitlement thereto that will prevent the repetition of the incident in question.”

Escueta added that there will be no time table in doing the lifestyle check.

Meanwhile, the PNP welcomes and “will abide” on the recommendations of the NAPOLCOM to conduct lifestyle check on members of the PNP delegation.

Monday, November 10, 2008

One dead, 13 injured in an explosion at PNPA

Miami Ebilane
November 10, 2008
One dead, 13 injured in an explosion at PNPA

One dead, 13 reportedly injured after an explosion occurred in Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA)

The incident occurred at around 5:30 pm at the firing range of PNPA. The PNP is located at Camp General Mariano CataƱeda in Silang, Cavite.

Silang Police Station Chief of Police Supt. Nestor Quilinguen said that a rifle grenade exploded accidentally.

According to him a rifle grenade is a kind of grenade being place in a rifle in be able to be use.

He do not identify the name yet of the victim that was killed in the incident. But he said that those who were hurt are all police already.

As he explained, “they are already doing commando training for the Special Action Force (SAF).” The SAF is the elite force of the PNP.

Victims were rushed to Adventist University of the Philippines Hospital.

both the lessee and the resort-owner do not want to leave the apartment in Boracay

Miami
November 10, 2008
Story: both the lessee and the resort-owner do not want to leave the apartment in Boracay

The land dispute in the tourist island in Boracay continues as both camps of the resort owner and the lessee remain holed-up in different floors of the apartment.

Editha Meren who is staying at the ground floor of Sand Castle claimed she has the right to take over the management of the resort since the lease contract of Greg Hutchinson was already terminated since October 2007.

On the other hand, Hutchinson maintained he could still managed the resort as provided for in the contract he signed with Meren last 1989 indicated that he has still 11 years to stay since the contract is valid until 2019. The Australian couple is the one running the Sand Castle as part of the contract they have with Meren. Hutchinsion is occupying the second and third floor. Police said they put a barrier at the first floor so that Meren will not be able to go upstatirs.

In an effort to address the conflict, Hutchinsion through his lawyer will file violation on status quo against Meren for trying to occupy the premises.

With the continuing problem, the police are forced to secure the area to prevent any confrontation between the two parties.

The police are not making any actions or trying to ask the two parties to leave the place because their problem “is legal matter.”

“It is the Court who can decide on this issue,” Supt. Arnold Ardiente, Chief of Police of Boracay said.

Hutchinsion earlier claimed he and his family were held hostage by the group of Meren but Ardiente, reported that there is no hostage taking happening. In fact, the Australian and his family is the one who do not want to go out of the apartment-type house that they are staying. Aside from the couple, their twins are also inside the house, but the police cannot confirm the genders of the twins.

Ardiente said the tension started Wednesday night, at around 10:20 p.m. when Meren, a Filipina, wants to talk Hutchinson, his Filipina wife Viveca to inform them that they their lease contract had been terminated already.

Meren was the one who informed the police that she already terminated the contract with the Hutchinson since October 2007. However the police cannot get the comment of the Hutchinson because the family is refusing to talk to anyone.

Verzosa to issue clarificatory memorandum on the controversial provision banning media to have access in blotter, he also apoligizes for the misunders

Miami
November 10, 2008
Story: Verzosa to issue clarificatory memorandum on the controversial provision banning media to have access in blotter, he also apoligizes for the misunderstanding that arises

Philippine National Police Chief, Police Director General Jesus Verzosa together with the Directorate for Police Community Relations Police Director Leopoldo Bataoil and PNP Spokesperson Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome, had a dialogue with media representatives to clarify what does the released memorandum of the PNP is all about.

Among those present are Benie Artiporda, President of National Press Club (NPC), Atty. Rejie Jularbal legal counsel of Kapisanan ng mga Broadkaster ng PIlipinas (KBP) and Dante Jimenez founding chairman of Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC).

Verzosa assures the media representatives that the press freedom will never be sacrificed just because of the memo he made. He reiterates that what they aimed for is to have a nice coordination and communication with the media people.

“We hope that you understood our point and position and if there was misunderstanding we feel sorry about it,” Verzosa said as he apologize for the confusion that his memo made.
He also said that what he meant for the section 7 letter e of the memo is to protect the rights of the women and children who have complaints. The said provision stated that “any information in the police blotter should not be made available to the public and media.”

The PNP also stated that they will abide with the law on the right to information and free access to public information.

“We don’t intend to prohibit information dissemination, we want to inform you that memo on decentralization was meant to enhance information dissemination,” Verzosa said.

“Please help us in coming up more specific relationships and cordial interaction with you (media),” Verzosa told the reporters.

Jimenez, who is also present at the dialogue, said that the concern of the VACC is the right of the victims specifically the women and the children involved. “Other than that, we believed that press freedom should not be suppressed.”

Artiporda said as a media practitioner, they already knew what should be reported and not. He also suggests to the media that if the report in blotter is “for record purposes” ask the designated spokesperson why it is for record purposes only.

If the blotter is “for follow-up, as a reporter, think first if it is necessary to report or not because you might be affecting the case per se,” Artiporda added.

On the next memorandum that the PNP will release, Verzosa said it will only clarify the section 7 letter e of the memo and other that is written on the provision will remain.

“The head of office will really have to designate a spokesperson that can brief the media on the crimes that has occurred because we want them to learn on how to coordinate to the media and for them also to be aware of what is happening on their respective places,” Verzosa explains.

Atty. Jularbal said that when the memorandum was explained to him he said he understand their situation and reminded the media that the memo is for the police itself and not for the media. “But I also said that as long as the PNP will respect right to information, we are willing to cooperate with themotherwise if they make an action that will limit our access to information, we will fight.”

Both PNP and NPC are expecting that the clarificatory memorandum will be out on Wednesday, November 12.

Three hurt in an explosion in Shariff Kabunsuan including policeman

Miami
November 10, 2008
Story: Three hurt in an explosion in Shariff Kabunsuan including policeman

Three people were hurt, including a police officer in an explosion transpired in Monday morning in Shariff Kabunsuan.

Based on the initial report gathered by Shariff Kabunsuan Provincial Director Supt. Esmael Pua Ali, people only heard a loud explosion at around 5:40 am near the vicinity of the public market in Datu Odin SInsuat in Shariff Kabunsuan.

Upon checking where the explosion came from, it was in a residential compound owned by PO1 Arnold Abellar located in Sitio Tenorio, Barangay Awang.

The brother and the son of PO1 Abellar were also living with him on that house. They were identified as Nilo Abellar 43, professor at Mindanao State University, wounded on his shoulder; while his son Eric Christian was hit on his head by shrapnel. PO1 Abellar was hit on his right knee.

The motive on the incident still unknown. Ali also said that they do not have suspects yet because no one saw the incident.

Ali also added that explosives device that was used is from a mortar based on the fragments recovered, but it is not yet known on what kind of mortar.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

Judge wounded, bodyguard killed in shooting incident in Negros Oriental

Miami
November 10, 2008
Story: Judge wounded, bodyguard killed in shooting incident in Negros Oriental

A judge in a city of Negros Oriental is wounded while his bodyguard died in a shooting accident occurred last Friday dawn.

The incident occurred in Sitio Looc, Barangay Poblacion, Guihulngan City, Negros Oriental at around 12:30 am. The victims were identified as Judge Mario Trinidad of Regional Trial Court branch 64 and his bodyguard Dolfo Guzman.

Sr. Supt. Augusto Marquez, Provincial director of Negros Oriental said that based on his conversation with Judge Trinidad yesterday, the incident could be work-related. But Marquez added that he ordered the investigators to look into every possible angle that lead to the shooting of the two.

Based on the investigation, the two came from the house of the friend of the judge in Sitio Bateria also in barangay Poblacion. While the two were on their way home to the judge’s residence, two suspects riding in tandem in a motorcycle followed them.

The two suspects were wearing helmet one of whom is armed with M-16 rifle.

The suspects shot the bodyguard who is riding at a motorcycle following the multi-cab that was being driven by the judge. Domingo sustained multiple gunshot wounds on different parts of his body that caused his instant death.

While judge Trinidad was hit at the right side of his face, right thigh and back portion of his body. Despite of the gunshot wound, he managed to go to his residence which is 100 to 120 meters away from the crime scene. At this point the suspects fled immediately to unknown direction.

Marquez said he also ordered the investigators to check if the real target of the suspects is the bodyguard of the Judge Trinidad, “Maybe the bodyguard is the one being target because he was killed while the Judge was only hurt.”

The police also learned that Domingo is working for the judge for the past two years.

Marquez added that they will check on the past five years and present cases that the judge is handling to see if there are any connections on the incident.

He added that he asked the judge if he is receiving death threats, the Judge told Marquez that he ahs no any death threats.

Recovered from the crime scene 10 empty shells of calibre 5.56.

The judge is now being confined at Siliman University Medical Center and was declared out of danger.

Friday, November 7, 2008

Russian authorities cleared dela Paz over 105,000 euros that was confiscated from him

Miami
November 7, 2008
Story: Russian authorities cleared dela Paz over 105,000 euros that was confiscated from him

Ex-PNP Comptrollership Police Director Eliseo dela Paz and all those who were reportedly involved in bringing excess money in Russia has been cleared from charges in Russia.

This was confirmed by Atty. Noel Malaya the legal counsel of dela Paz.

In a phone interview, Malaya said that he emailed the lawyer of dela Paz in Russia named, Alex Binetskiy last November 5, “I told him that I want to inquire on the status of 105,000 euros of my client Gen De la Paz. Also is it possible for me to inquire on the reported investigation of the other members of the group.”

Malaya received reply from Binetskiy yesterday, saying, “The investigation is over and no criminal charges presented to anyone of the group. The money will be returned immediately after the decision of the investigator Capt. E.Rudenko will be confirmed by his chief. I am in contact with him every day. No more charges or questions to any other members of the group from Philippines reported.”

With this latest development, Malaya said that the legal case against dela Paz should be considered as “over.”

“To my mind once the money is returned the issue on malversation is gone,” Malaya said.

It can be recalled that dela Paz was held for questioning last October 11, in Moscow International Airport after the Russian authorities found out that he is carrying excess money.

It was also reported that the Russian authorities is inviting Mrs. Cynthia Verzosa, wife of Chief PNP Chief Police Director General Jesus Verzosa, and retired police Director Jaime Caringal to appear before them on Nov. 13, 2008 for questioning. The two were told to go to the Sheremetyevo Airport, Administrative Building, Sheremetyevo Customs 3rd floor room 24324.

NCRPO bans policemen in wearing SWAT uniform because it is being used by lawless elements

Miami
November 7, 2008
Story: NCRPO bans policemen in wearing SWAT uniform because it is being used by lawless elements

The National Capital Region Police Office has banned its policemen from Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) to wear their black uniforms because it is also being used by lawless elements victimizing innocent people for robbery.

Police Director Jefferson Soriano, NCRPO Chief, said that all those who will wear SWAT uniform, policemen or not, it will be subject for arrest and the SWAT uniform will be confiscated.

He added that they are now studying what kind of sanctions that they should give on those who will violate this.

The NCRPO made this agreement after they had their command conference last Tuesday, November 4, 2008. “The SWAT personnel will have to wear their regular police uniform, blue uniform, it’s a complete turn around of the SWAT uniform, we need to solve it before Christmas season and we will do everything,” Soriano said.

The decision for banning the SWAT uniform is because of the number of robbery happening in Metro Manila, and most of the suspects are wearing SWAT uniform.

Even if SWAT personnel are at the operations, they should not wear the SWAT uniform but instead the blue one.

Base on the information that we got, there are three groups of armed men consist of 30 persons doing robbery that are wearing SWAT uniform as their modus operandi.

Meanwhile, for the upcoming Christmas season, Soriano said they will deploy 1,000 Regional Mobile Group (RMG) in Metro Manila particularly in terminals and malls. The RMG personnel have M-16. He also believed that crimes during Christmas season are going down because of the police visibility.

Public market in Naga City gutted by fire, estimated damages reached P100 million

Miami
November 7,2008
Story: Public market in Naga City gutted by fire, estimated damages reached P100 million

A public market in Naga City in Bicol was gutted by fire which lasted for almost 10 hours, fire official said.

According to Chief Inspector Ronald Iguaras, Chief of Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) in Naga City, the fire started at around 10:00 pm of November 6, 2008, Thursday, but their attention were called at around 11:00 pm only because of poor communication.

The fire was out at around 8:00 am of November 7, 2008 Friday. The public market is located at Barangay Igualdad, Naga City.

“When we get there, 1/3 of the market is burning already, and we cannot penetrate inside anymore,” Iguaras said.

He added that the second floor and the third floor of the market is the one that was really damage because of the fire.

The building structure of the market is concrete, but the stalls inside which are about 1,000 were made of light materials. Also, the materials inside includes ready to wear clothes, shoes and some vegetables that cause the fire to easily spread.

Another reason why the fire was not stopped easily is because lack of water on their pumping stations.

The origin of the fire is at the vegetable stall at the right side 2nd floor of the market, estimated damages reached about 100 million.

Verzosa clarifies the memorandum he released but will not retract on designating spokesperson that will answer media’s questions

Miami
November 7, 2008
Story: Verzosa clarifies the memorandum he released but will not retract on designating spokesperson that will answer media’s questions

Police Director General Jesus Verzosa, Chief of the Philippine National Police explains the memorandum he released but said it will not retract its plan to designate a spokesperson in each police station.

The memorandum pertaining to the “Decentralization of the Functions of the Public Information Office” sparks controversy because it states that any information in the police blotter should not be made available to the public and media “without proper authorization from the Head of Office or unless the disclosure is in compliance with a lawful order of the court or any pertinent authority. “

Verzosa explained that their objective, “To speed up on disseminating the information to the media for the information of the public.”

With this, according to Verzosa, the information will not only be concentrated to the office of the Chief of Public Information Office (PIO) in Camp Crame or the office of Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome, PNP Spokesperson.

The desk officer who is the one really in-charge of the blotter will be the one designated to allow the media to have access on the blotter and what information on the blotter they should get. The reporter has to present its proper identification card to the desk officer.

To have no confusion on what to release and not, Directorate for Police Community Relations (DPCR) Police Director Leopoldo Bataoil said that there will be two blotters; one for confidentiality report and the other one will be open for everybody.

In the “confidential blotter” all reports about rape, kidnap, abuse on women and children or minor, on-going hot pursuit operations will be written there. Bartolome added an investigation report, which will have complete details, will be made available once the investigation is finished or case close already.

Verzosa also said that if there is big crime incident happen the designated police spokesperson should conduct a press briefing after two hours.

“We do not want to curtail the blotter, but we do not want also unauthorized person to look at it just for the sake of gossip because it involves probable violation of honor to the victim and suspect,” Verzosa said.

The Chief of the PNP also said that they are urging all that will be designated spokesperson of each stations to be always present, always be available to answer the questions of the media. “Commanders on each stations should be aware and should know what is happening on their area, and they should be the one can explain this to the media.”

If he will be called again at the Senate, Verzosa said he is willing to appear at the Senate to explain the memorandum.

Bataoil added that he already explained to Press Secretary Jesus Dureza the memorandum, “I already explain this to Secretary Dureza, they understand the memo and he already issued statement in support of what we did.”

Verzosa and Bataoil also said that Sr. Supt. Lina Sarmiento, Chief of PNP Human Rights Affairs Office (HRAO) already went to the office of Commission of Human Rights Commissioner Leila de Lima to explain the mater.

Thursday, November 6, 2008

no hostage taking happened in Boracay, but police still guarding the place for safety

Miami
November 6, 2008
Story: no hostage taking happened in Boracay, but police still guarding the place for safety

The police downplay the report that the Australian national together with his family are being hostage inside the house that they are staying in Boracay.

According to Supt. Arnold Ardiente, Chief of Police of Boracay, there is no hostage taking happening. In fact, the Australian and his family is the one who do not want to go out of the apartment-type house that they are staying.

Ardiente said the tension started Wednesday night, at around 10:20 pm when the owner of the land identified as Editha Meren, a Filipina, wants to talk to the Australian identified as Greg Hutchinson, his Filipina wife Viveca to inform them that they have no rights to stay at the Sand Castle Resort anymore because the contract is being terminated already. Aside from the couple, their twins are also inside the house, but the police cannot confirm the genders of the twins.

The Australian couple is the one running the Sand Castle as part of the contract they have with Meren.

Meren told the police that she already terminated the contract with the Hutchinson since October 2007. However the police cannot get the comment of the Hutchinson because the family is refusing to talk to anyone.

Ardiente said the Hutchinson is waiting for their lawyers to come by Friday and the negotiations between them and Meren will take place.

Ardiente also said that no one from both parties are complaining to the policemen that is why the police are not investigating anything.

“We are only here at the area to provide security for the safety of the people here or anything that may happen, at least we are here to respond immediately,” Ardiente said.

He added that the Hutchinson family are staying at the second floor of one of the apartment-type house in the Sand Castle resort.

Municipal Engineer in Maguinadanao, killed in ambush his wife injured

Miami
November 6, 2008
Story: Municipal Engineer in Maguinadanao, killed in ambush his wife injured

A municipal engineer was killed while his wife were injured in an ambush slay in Maguindanao last Wednesday afternoon, November 5.

Supt. Esmael Pua Ali, provincial Director of Shariff Kabunsuan identified the victim as Rey Sioson, 42, municipal engineer of South Upi, Maguindanao. His wife was identified as Rolita Sioson, 45.

The incident occurred along the highway of Barangay Datu Gampung, Datu Odin SInsuat, Shariff Kabunsuan. The couple came from Cotabato City and about to go to South Upi when the incident happened.

At around 5:00 pm while Sioson is driving his owner-type jeep and traversing the road in Barangay Datu Gampung, two men boarded in motorcycle suddenly followed them. When they reached KM30 the motorcycle went on the driver’s side of the owner-type jeep then shot Sioson several times on different parts of his body.

His wife Rolita, sustained gunshot wounds on his left arm and now being treated in Notre Dame Hospital.

15 died in a truck and van head-on collision in Bukidnon

Miami
November 6, 2008
Story: 15 died in a truck and van head-on collision in Bukidnon

15 people have been killed after the truck bumped on a van, Wednesday, November 5 in Bukidnon.

The incident occurred at around 1:35 pm along the highway in Sitio Mahayag, Barangay Poblacion, Dangcagan. Sr. Insp. Teresita Taperla-Salana, chief of police of Dangcagan, said the 10-wheeler truck (MVG-418) cargo overtook another truck not knowing that there is a van approaching.

15 passengers, including the driver, being driven by Jun Michael Limbaga, riding the Mitsubishi L300 van (GJR-413), were killed because of the impact when it hit by the truck being driven by Gilbert Gonzaga and he has two companions. All of them sustained bruises only.

Because of the strong impact of the collision, the van was total wreck. The van came from Kibawe town and was about to go to Dangcagan proper.

The driver of the van is now at the custody of the police and will file charges reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide and damage to property.

1 killed, 21 hurt in a bus accident in Cavite

Miami
November 6, 2008
Story: 1 killed, 21 hurt in a bus accident in Cavite

Another bus was figured in accident in Cavite that lead to the death of one person and injured of 21 persons, Thursday morning.

The incident occurred at around 4:30 am, November 6, along Centennial Road, Barangay Tramo Marulas, Kawit, Cavite.

Based on the stories told by the passengers, the bus which is a Jethro Bus Liner (DXR-121) tried to overtake a motorcycle, but the bus lost control because the road is slippery. The bus is bound for Lawton in Manila and came from Naic, Cavite.

PO1 Jun Olorado, investigator of the case, even said that the bus turn around about 180 degrees before it fell on the side with 3 to 4 meters depth. He added that there are shanties that were affected on the place were the bus fell.

“Three shanties on the area were damaged when the bus fall, two residents were injured,” Olorado said.

Olardo said that the road is slippery and muddy.

He identified the fatality as June Magtawas, 78, one of the residents at the shanties, was sleeping inside his house when the bus fell.

The bus has 19 passengers including the driver and the conductor. All of the passengers were rushed to Divine Grace Hospital in Rosario, Cavite.

The driver was identified as Ariel Guadalupe, 30, is now being hold by the police. He will be charged of reckless imprudence resulting in homicide and multiple physical injuries and damage to property.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

PNP to designate spokesperson down to police stations to answer queries of the media on any crime incident, reporters cannot ask questions to the inve

Miami
November 6, 2008
Story: PNP to designate spokesperson down to police stations to answer queries of the media on any crime incident, reporters cannot ask questions to the investigator

Reporters will now have difficulty in making access of information at any police station to know what crimes happened during the day and why or how it happened. The reporters are advised to talk to who would be designated spokesperson for the station.

Police Director General Jesus Verzosa, chief of the PNP, released a memorandum dated October 20, that any information in the police blotter should not be made available to the public and media. Their reason is to protect the integrity of the document, which is the blotter, “and the identity of any victim and suspect.”

It is also stated on the memorandum that looking at the blotter should have “Proper authorization from the Head of Office or unless the disclosure is in compliance with a lawful order of the court or any pertinent authority.”

Spokesperson of the PNP, Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said, “You should not talk to the investigator anymore to ask your questions, but to the designated spokesperson of their station.”

If the “spokesperson” is not available, Bartolome said the reporters should ask the chief of police or whoever is the head of office on where should they gather information.

Bartolome, however, could not react on the position of mediamen that there is information that an investigator could only answer.

Bartolome also said that the intention of the memo is to decentralize the functions of the Public Information Office down to police stations in different parts of the country so that al station down to the district or municipality level will have their own system on informing the people of the crimes that happened.

Bartolome added not all listed in the blotter can be allowed to be seen by the media people especially if the case involves women and children.

“There should be a proper coordination between the media and the police officer that would be designated as spokesperson on which crime should be reported,” Bartolome added.

It is also stated that within two hours of the incident, “The PIO/Spokesperson, upon clearance from the Head of Office, shall hold a Press Conference or media briefing regarding a major accomplishment or significant incident within a period of 2 hours from the time of the activity or incident.”

Meanwhile, the National Press Club (NPC) opposes the memorandum released by Verzosa. On their statement, is said, “Banning media men from checking the blotter, smacks of media repression. It has never been done before not even during the repressive Martial Law years.”

“It could be send wrong signals that the state especially the police is slowly curtailing press freedom in the country,” also stated at the statement.

The NPC is urging the Verzosa to lift the ban immediately.

PNP mum about reports that Russian authorities summons Verzosa’s wife and Caringal on their own undeclared excess money that they brought

Miami
November 5, 2008
Story: PNP mum about reports that Russian authorities summons Verzosa’s wife and Caringal on their own undeclared excess money that they brought

The Philippine National Police is keeping mum about the reports that the Russian authorities has summoned Mrs. Cynthia Verzosa, the wife of PNP Chief Director General Jesus Verzosa and Reginal Director of Police Regional Office 9 Police Director Jaime Caringal.

PNP Spokesman Chief Supt. Nicanor Bartolome said that they are not aware of the said summoned, “We have not seen the said communication yet and so we cannot react considering that we have not read its content. Probably when it gets to us, we can give you the appropriate reaction. But for now we have yet to receive said communication.”

The said letter of the Russian authorities was sent to the Department of Foreign Affairs dated October 31, 2008. The letter came from “Head deputy of customs on law enforcement, colonel of Customs Service S. V. Bityutsky.”

The letter states; “I would like also to inform you that the mentioned nationals (Cynthia Verzosa and Caringal) are required to come to the department of Administrative Investigation of Sheremetyevo Customs to give explanations for the violations of laws of the Russian Federation and let us make a decision if administrative offense case should be initiated (filing of report on administrative offense) on the ground of the paragraph 15 of the administrative offenses code of the Russian federation (AOC of Russia), because of the failure to declare foreign currency conveyed through the customs border of the Russian Federation that must be declared in written form.”

Bartolome evens aid that they will not coordinate on the Department of Foreign Affairs with regards to the letter because they do not receive any letter “What are we going to coordinate with them?”

In the letter of the Russian authorities it said that the Mrs. Verzosa and Caringal has to explain on failure to declare foreign currency exceeding its limit that entered their country, but on how much the money is, it is not mentioned.

It also said that the two, “They are asked to come on Nov. 13, 2008 at 12 noon to the following address Sheremetyevo Airport, Administrative Building og Sheremetyevoo Customs 3rd floor room 24324. They need to bring passports. The defender must have Power of Attorney.”

Bartolome said that the PNP cannot answer anything about it because they are not aware of the said letter.

Meanwhile, Bartolome also said that Caringal is not under their jurisdiction anymore because he is retiring from office effective November 5, “And so by said retirement, we cannot have jurisdiction anymore, in so far as answering any particular invitation or queries is concerned. The PNP will be very particular with those who are still within our jurisdiction.”

Caringal was replaced by Chief Supt. Angelo Sunglao former Chief of PNP Maritime Group.

With the invitation coming from the Russian authorities inviting Mrs. Verzosa and Caringal to answer some questions, it seems that it is not only retired Police Director Eliseo dela Paz carrying a huge amount of money.

It can be recalled that dela Paz was held in Moscow International Airport last October 11 for bringing undeclared 105 euros wherein the limit should be $10,000 only. It was also reported then that Caringal was left in Moscow to give support to dela Paz.

The money that was also reported to be wire-transfer from Moscow to PNP accounts has not yet been received by the PNP.

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

39 dead, 76 rescued in sunken ferry in Masbate

Ma. Lourdes “Miami” Ebilane
November 4, 2008
Story: 39 dead, 76 rescued in sunken ferry in Masbate

(BASED ON INITIAL INFORMATION that Sindac has)

Sr. Supt. Rueben Theodore Sindac, Provincial Director of Masbate Provincial Police Office confirms that a ferry sank in Dimasalang, Masbate.

The ferry named Don Alexander Cathlyn was about to go to Bulan, Sorosogon when it sank five kilometres away from the shoreline of Dimasalang, Masbate at vicinity of barangay Magcaragit due to strong winds at around 1:00 pm, November 4.

On the manifesto, 119 passengers are listed.

The rescuers were able to rescue 76 people, recover 39 dead bodies and 10 are reportedly missing.

The 39 bodies are presently at the Dimasalang Pier for proper identification of the bodies.

Suspect on killing Japanese national in Compostela, Cebu post bail

Miami
November 4, 2008
Story: Suspect on killing Japanese national in Compostela, Cebu post bail

A suspect in killing a Japanese national last October 5, 2008 in Little Marikina, Sitio Lutao, Barangay Estaca, Compostela, Cebu already post bail for his temporary freedom.

The homicide case against Christopher Tariman was filed last October 8, 2008 at the Mandaue Regional Trial Court Branch 55 at the sala of Judge Ulric Canete with case number DU-16-546.

According to the staff of Branch 55, who do not want to be identified, the arraignment for his case is scheduled on December 4, 2008 but he still has no lawyer.

When he surrendered last October 6, the police were not able to question him because he has no lawyer. But he was detained then at Compostela Police Station.

The staff also confirmed that the suspect were able to post bail for his temporary freedom amounting to P40,000 last October 9, 2008.

Tariman has killed his brother in-law Yasuaki Matsuura, a Japanese national, on the height of their argument with regards to the commissioned that Tariman should be getting for selling a taxi cab. Based on investigation, the taxi was sold to about Php310,000 and Tariman was about to get Php10,000.

Matsuura sustained gunshot wound on his forehead using .45 pistol. He was killed at the house of Tariman, kitchen area.

As explained by PO2 Erwin Valverde, officer on-case, they file homicide case instead of murder, “Because there is an altercation or heated argument between the two before the incident happened.”

two Korean nationals in critical condition after falling in a ravine in La Union, one of their companion, a Filipino, died

Miami
November 4, 2008
Story: two Korean nationals in critical condition after falling in a ravine in La Union, one of their companion, a Filipino, died

Two Korean nationals are now in critical condition in a hospital in Baguio City after the vehicle that they are riding fell in a ravine in La Union last November 2.

The incident occurred at around 1:00 pm at the vicinity of Barangay Cataguintingan, Rosario, La Union involving a Toyota Lite-Ace van (RED-819) driven by Sang Young Song, 36, Korean national from Daejen City and presently residing at Legarda Road, Baguio City. His passengers were Hyun Jun Cho, 36 and Delbert Cunanan, 29, the only Filipino passenger who died on the spot.

According to the chief of police of Rosario police station, Chief inspector Godfrey Buslotan, the Toyota Lite Ace was traversing the northbound lane of the road and upon reaching the sharp curve portion, the Lite Ace swerved to the shoulder portion of the road also in northbound and made an abrupt left turn going towards the southbound lane and hit the rear left side near the driver’s side of a Toyota Revo (AED-618) driven by Carlito Tamayo, 42, resident of San Antonio, Agoo, La Union.

The Revo has four passengers on it, but no one of them were reportedly hurt.

Buslotan said there is no extensive impact at the Toyota Revo, because it was able to stay away from the Lite Ace because the driver of the Revo able to see how the Lite Ace went to the southbound lane then fell to 100 feet ravine.

The two Koreans were rushed to La Union Medical Center and later transferred to St. Louis Hospital in Baguio City for medical attention.

As of this writing, the police has not yet spoken to the two Koreans because of their condition. Bustolan admitted that they do not know where the passengers of the Lite Ace are heading to. The police are also coordinating to the Korean community in Baguio to know if they are familiar with the two Koreans.

PNP turns over the investigation on P6.9 million to the Ombudsman, did not make any recommendation on what case to be filed

Miami
November 4, 2008
Story: PNP turns over the investigation on P6.9 million to the Ombudsman, did not make any recommendation on what case to be filed

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-National Capital Region (CIDG-NCR) of the Philippine National Police already submit the documents they gather on their investigation in relation to P6.930 million or the Moscow incident to the Ombudsman.

Sr. Supt. Isagani Nerez, Chief of CIDG-NCR said, “We've accumulated all the necessary documents pertaining to our investigation, we are waiting for other pieces of evidence. But because of the letter of our Ombudsman, the Chief PNP (Director general Jesus Verzosa) directed us to submit report and documents and evidence in connection with the Moscow incident.”

The Office of the Ombudsman Merceditas Guiterrez wrote to Verzosa directing them to submit their report. This is the day after Verzosa made his orders to the CIDG-NCR to file appropriate charges against Retired Police Director Eliseo Dela Paz, Chief Supt Orlando Pestano (chief of Finance Service), Senior Superintendent Tomas Rentoy (budget division chief), and Superintendent Samuel Rodriguez (special disbursing officer) for the unauthorized release of P6.930-million from the PNP confidential/intelligence funds,

“Pursuant to Section 15 of Republic Act 6770, you are hereby directed to submit your report and recommendation to this Office to form part of our on-going investigation,” stated at the letter of Gutierrez to Verzosa.

It is also stated on the letter that as of October 16, the Ombudsman has started their investigation.

But the CIDG-NCR did not make any recommendation on what case should be filed against the four. “The Ombudsman already invokes its authority and primary jurisdiction and therefore the PNP already yields to the investigation of Ombudsman,” Nerez said.

“The proper recommendation as to what charges and who shall be charged in court rest on the shoulder of the Ombudsman and not with the PNP because we do not want to pre-empt the investigation they are doing,” Nerez added.

Among the evidences that the CIDG-NCR submitted to the Ombudsman are affidavits of police officers (proof that they attended the assembly) the letter of response from the Bureau of Immigration and deportation from the Bureau of Customs and the acknowledgment receipts pertaining to the disbursement of PNP funds in relation to Moscow incident.

Even if the PNP already cease their investigation, Nerez said they are already reached about 80% of their investigation before turning over the case to the Ombudsman.

The PNP is now facing a controversy after the Russian authorities found 105,000 euros in the luggage of dela Paz at the Moscow International Airport last October 11. Dela Paz is about to go back to the Philippines when he was held for questioning. He came back in the Philippines last October 21 and say sorry for the “lapses” he made.

He even said that the money P6.930 million (105,000 euros) will be wire-transfer from Moscow to the accounts of the PNP. But until now, the PNP is not yet receiving the money.