Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. on Monday expressed dismay over the alleged involvement of some police officers in recent criminal cases, stressing that there will be no cover-up and that those found liable will face administrative and criminal charges.
“Despite all the morale boosting, salary increases, and improved capabilities given to us, it is sad that there are still police officers involved in crimes. Even if the number is small, it is still disappointing,” Nartatez said during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
He assured the public that the PNP would thoroughly investigate all allegations and hold erring personnel accountable.
“For the past weeks, we have had police officers unmasked or discovered to be involved in death cases. We will do everything to ensure they are held accountable. No cover-up. No whitewash,” he said.
While Nartatez did not directly cite the killing of Police Senior Master Sgt. Diane Marie Mollenido and her eight-year-old son, John Ysmael, his remarks came in response to questions about the case.
“We already have the names of those involved and the motive. We will provide significant updates in a separate briefing,” he said, referring to a scheduled briefing on February 3.
Police earlier arrested three suspects—Gil Valdemoro Dy Jr., a rider; Pia Katrina Panganiban, a car sales agent; and her husband, Christian Suarez Panganiban, a dismissed police officer—in Quezon City on January 30. They face two counts of robbery with homicide in connection with the killings.
Mollenido and her son were reported missing on January 19. Her body was found in a creek in Bulacan on January 24, while her son’s body was discovered at a calamansi farm in Tarlac on January 29.
