National Police Commission (Napolcom) Vice Chairman and Executive Office (VCEO) lawyer Rafael Vicente Calinisan on Tuesday said that some groups and individuals are attempting to influence their investigation into the alleged involvement of 12 police officers in the high-profile case of missing “sabungeros” or cockfighting enthusiasts.
In a statement, the lawyer revealed that the Napolcom has received credible information pointing to two groups that allegedly tried to interfere with the direction of the inquiry.
“I found both approaches insulting. I will decide on these cases based on the evidence at hand, based on our investigations, and ever mindful of due process to all concerned. We will be fair. We will dispose of this case without fear or favor,” Calinisan said.
He added that the Napolcom will not be deterred by external pressures and will allow the evidence to speak for itself. He also encouraged individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist in ensuring that justice is served.
Napolcom’s Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service (IMIS) is currently evaluating the counter-affidavits submitted on Monday by the 12 active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in response to the administrative complaints lodged by a key witness identified as “Alyas Totoy.”
“This investigation is being handled with the highest degree of integrity. We owe that to the families of the missing individuals and to the Filipino people,” Calinisan said.
“There are two groups that we are trying to fix. The first is a gang boss who is allegedly trying to rip off his police officers. The second is a group of a local government executive who wants to clear his name and is working on many ways to fix his case and wants to get closer to me,” he added.
Despite these efforts, the Napolcom official assured the public that the commission remains unwavering in its commitment to impartiality, transparency, and due process.
“I will not allow it, we will not settle. My message to the two groups is that you should not try it, the President’s order to us is clear that there are no cover-ups, no stone unturned. We at Napolcom will not allow anyone to influence us. We are not afraid, we will not argue,” Calinisan said.
He added that the 12 police officers may face administrative charges for grave misconduct and conduct unbecoming of a police officer. He also said that the Napolcom would release its decision on the matter in 60 days.
