Cops to face raps over detainee’s escape

CEBU, Philippines -  The Provincial Investigation and Detective Management Branch has found probable cause to file administrative charges against San Remigio policemen for the escape of a robbery with homicide suspect from the San Remigio police stockade last Oct. 2.

The PIDMB recommended that SPO1 Nicolas Navales, team leader, be charged for less grave neglect of duty for failure to take immediate correction or take appropriate action when the irregularity of duty is being committed in his presence by a subordinate under his command.

It was also recommended that PO1 Herman Bulawit be charged for simple neglect of duty for being absent without having filed the necessary application for leave or secured the approval of the superior officer before he left while on duty.

Insp. Aniceto Manloloyo will also be further investigated and directed to explain why he should not be charged for dishonesty for concealing the truth in a matter of fact relevant to his office, or connected with the performance of his duties.

The evaluation result of the PIDMB was conducted against the policemen mentioned after Nonilon Lequigan Magallanes, escaped from the detention cell by destroying the ceiling and cutting and bending the iron bars.

Magallanes then exited through the rotting plywood ceiling behind the police station. The incident was discovered 8 a.m. Magallanes was arrested by the San Remigio police last Nov. 30 in Sitio Patag, Barangay Argawanon.

Designated jailer Bulawit was absent at the time as he was an outgoing night watch patroller and allegedly suffering from loose bowel movement.

It was said that SPO1 Jovanne Placencia and PO1 Rino Inso were assigned to assist the jailer but this was in contrast to the statement of Inso that they were not informed to assist Bulawit.

It was also found out that Manloloyo included PO1 Russel Ramoneda to explain the escape of Magallanes although he was not included. 

The result of the investigation will be forwarded to the Police Regional Office-7 for a summary hearing.   (FREEMAN)