The suspended Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission spokesperson, Winston Casio, admitted to slapping an individual during the raid on a suspected POGO facility in Bataan, where authorities found evidence of scamming and human trafficking.
In a radio interview, Casio said that he slapped the worker after the individual allegedly disrespected an officer.
He explained that he gave the worker two options: face a complaint for unjust vexation or accept two slaps. The worker reportedly chose the latter, resulting in what Casio described as “a few light slaps.”
“I lost my temper. I was wrong, and I’m willing to face the consequences,” Casio told TeleRadyo Serbisyo.
“At the end of the day, I’ve got a much bigger mandate,” he said, stressing that resigning would mean “allowing scammers to win.”
Earlier, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin confirmed Casio’s suspension and ordered him to submit a written explanation of his actions within 24 hours.
Meanwhile, PAOCC Executive Director Gilberto Cruz emphasized the need for a fair investigation, and said that Casio’s suspension will last until the probe is concluded.
