PASG-Cebu head defends operation

CEBU - The Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group in Cebu defended its operation that nearly resulted to a shootout between its members and the agents of the National Bureau of Investigation following a standoff over the custody of a seized container van.

PASG Cebu director Ariel Palcuto reacted to published report that criticized them for the “excessive” use of force upon the NBI agents.

At least two NBI agents were dropped on the ground while being disarmed by PASG operatives last Monday night outside a warehouse in Mandaue City.

Palcuto said it was a standard operating procedure for law enforcers to neutralize the subject especially that they got information on armed person alarm.

“Normal po sa isang pulis na i-disarm,” Palcuto said.

According to Palcuto, his men should not be blamed for what happened because they did not believe at first that it was an NBI operation, explaining it is because the people they saw outside the warehouse were not properly dressed and did not wear any identifying marks.

“They should have dressed properly,” he added.

NBI executive officer Ernesto Macabare earlier explained that the agents whom the PASG personnel saw were part of the surveillance team.

Palcuto also questioned the manner the operation was conducted, saying the NBI is not supposed to be the lead agency. Based on the mission order, he said the NBI is only tasked to assist the operatives of PASG from Manila.

But Palcuto said there were no organic personnel from PASG during the operation.

Asked how he felt about having bypassed by PASG deputy director for operations Edmund Arugay, Palcuto said he understands the situation.

Although he did not know what prompted Arugay to tap NBI instead of the local PASG, Palcuto said it could have been triggered by reports that PASG personnel are involved in irregularities.

Palcuto admitted there are unscrupulous people claiming to be PASG and extorting money from importers. “Pag nahuli ko kung sino sila, magkakamatayan kami,” he said. — Fred P. Languido/WAB (THE FREEMAN)