PHILIPPINE National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. has ordered a thorough investigation into the killing of a whistleblower from the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) in Region 10.
Nartatez directed the Northern Mindanao Police Regional Office (PRO-10) to identify and arrest the killers of Niruh Kyle Antatico, 40, a former legal researcher of the Region 10 NIA who bared on social media alleged corruption involving irrigation fund.
“The PNP strongly condemns this act of violence. We assure the family of the victim and the public that we will focus on this case to identify and arrest all those behind this senseless killing,” Nartatez said.
He directed the Region 10 police to prioritize the case and activate a Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) dedicated solely to the task.
He also instructed investigators to coordinate closely with the NIA-10 for a full background on the whistleblower’s recent activities and allegations about irregularities.
“The PNP is now conducting a thorough investigation into this incident. Our investigators from the PRO-10, in coordination with the local police and the CIDG, are gathering all available evidence, including CCTV footage and testimonies from witnesses,” Nartatez said.
“We are looking into all possible angles, including the victim’s work-related activities, to determine the real motive behind the killing. Rest assured, we will exhaust all means to identify and arrest those responsible,” he added.
Nartatez also ordered local police units to extend protection to possible witnesses or individuals linked to the disclosures made by the victim.
“The directive is clear: no stone will be left unturned. We will make sure that justice is served swiftly,” he said.
Antatico was gunned down by motorcycle-riding gunmen in Crossing Patag, Cagayan de Oro City on Friday, Oct. 10.
Police have launched a follow-up investigation and manhunt for the killers.
Meanwhile, the NIA-10 said it is taking Antatico’s corruption claims seriously and has undertaken comprehensive review and verification of the issues he raised.
