Garbo admits lapse, cancels golf tourney

CEBU, Philippines - Police Regional Office-7 Director Marcelo Garbo Jr. has recalled all solicitation letters for a benefit golf tournament he has organized for the construction of a clubhouse at the PNP officers’ quarters in PC Hills, Lahug.

Garbo decided to cancel the tournament after National Police Commission-7 director Homer Mariano Cabaral said that the activity is not sanctioned by the commission.

Cabaral likewise threatened Garbo of a possible administrative investigation if he pushes through with the tournament.

Cabaral explained that fundraising such as golf tournament needs prior approval from the Napolcom en banc.

Garbo himself acknowledged that there is an existing memorandum issued by the Napolcom about it. He was however quick to say that his men may have overlooked the policy.

“I know that rule, nagkamali siguro, may oversight,” he said.

He admitted having committed a mistake prompting him to “shelf” the tournament.

“When I sign the document, na overlook ko na dapat may charitable. Nobody is perfect, I admit that,” he added.  

He, however, said they were simply “thinking out of the box” in order to find way to address pressing problems in the region.

“I can’t be a good regional director, if the region is not good,” Garbo said.

Garbo said holding a golf tournament is one way to answer the limited funds provided by the government. As a leader, he said, it is his responsibility to find solution to the problem.

“This has been the practice of the organization and other agencies of the government” to congregate funds for their programs.

Garbo clarified that they have “clear intention” of the activity which was supposed to “enhance the moral and welfare” of the policemen in the region.

With the cancellation of the tournament, Garbo promised to find other ways to raise funds to realize the project. —(FREEMAN)