Ten Metro Manila policemen were dismissed from service after they were found guilty of administrative charges in connection with the questionable operation against four foreigners in Parañaque City in September last year.
The policemen were identified as Police LtCol. Jolet Guevara; Police Major Jason Quijana and John Patrick Magsalos; Police Capt. Sherwin Limbauan; Police Staff Sergeants Roy Pioquinto, Mark J. Democrito, Danilo L. Desder, Roy Pioquinto, Christina Corpuz; and Corporal Rexes Claveria.
The 10 policemen were dismissed effective Feb. 12 for grave misconduct, grave irregularity in the performance of duty, grave neglect of duty, the conduct of unbecoming police officers, less grave misconduct, and less grave neglect of duty.
Police Major Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., director of the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO), said that the dismissal should serve as a stern warning that he will not tolerate any form of abuse and willful violations of the law.
Aside from the dismissal of 10 police officials, seven officers were demoted in rank, while 17 others were suspended for various infractions for the alleged illegal arrest of Chinese nationals in Parañaque City in September last year, according to the NCRPO.
The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) meanwhile lauded a lower court in South Cotabato for the conviction of three policemen charged with torturing a traffic violator six years ago.
“The Commission strongly denounces any form of violence, particularly when perpetrated by people who are agents of peace and those in positions of authority. This case is not just a blatant violation of the law but also a direct transgression against the principles of humanity,” it maintained.
It was referring to a decision of the Municipal Trial Court in Cities in South Cotabato that found Police Master Sgt. Edmer Gerodias, Corporal Edwin Habagat and Patrolman Allen Candido guilty beyond reasonable doubt in conspiracy with one another in the commission of violation of Republic Act 9745 or the Anti-Torture Act of 2009.
The CHR Region XII filed the charges against the three police officers.
“This is the fourth instance wherein the CHR has been involved in addressing allegations of torture as outlined in RA No. 9745, which resulted in a court conviction,” the commission said.
On Feb. 3, 2018, the victim, Ernesto Omani, was arrested for a traffic violation and placed in the custody of the three policemen.
He claimed he was kicked in the face and body, and hit his arm and leg with an armalite butt in Koronadal City, South Cotabato.
“Given the ruling of this case, we reiterate our reminder to all police officers to adhere to the Philippine National Police’s operational procedures, which states that ‘no violence or unnecessary force shall be used in making an arrest.’ It is critical for our law enforcement officers to understand the importance of using proportional and judicious force in their duties. Only through these actions can we ensure that justice, human rights, and the rule of law are upheld and respected,” CHR said.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to protecting the rights of every person, regardless of circumstances. While we recognize the utmost importance of accountability, we believe that the true essence of justice is the fair and humane treatment of all. We shall build a society that protects human rights and enables everyone to live without fear of abuse, torture or cruelty,” it added. With Rio Araja