Explain leading operations vs. Gwen

CEBU, Philippines - Mayor Michael Rama has asked Police Regional Office-7 director Marcelo Garbo to explain to him in writing why he spearheaded the police operation at the Capitol Compound when the order against suspended Governor Gwen Garcia was implemented and her office was padlocked and without coordinating with him.

“It is conduct unbecoming and downright disrespect, if not a clear disregard of the law and due process for a head of a police regional office to spearhead a series of police operations within the territorial jurisdiction of Cebu City without proper coordination with the undersigned mayor who has the authority to exercise control and supervision over the deployment and employment of police unit within the city,” he told Garbo.

In a letter sent to Garbo’s office at Camp Sergio Osmeña Sr. yesterday, the mayor cited a series of activities and announcements made by the policemen personally supervised by Senior Supt. Edward Carranza at the Capitol compound.

Rama also quoted newspaper and radio reports to support his claim that Garbo violated the law as provided for under the Section 64 of Republic Act 8551 or the PNP law and of the Local Government  Code.

The mayor reminded Garbo that being a deputy of the National Police Commission, the policy-making body of the PNP, the mayor has the authority to exercise operational supervision and control over PNP units in their respective jurisdictions, except during the 30-day period preceding and 30 days after the elections.

“It is incumbent upon you as an officer and a gentleman to shed light on this questionable deployment and employment of police officers from the PRO-7 rather than of the Cebu City Police Office,” the letter further read.

Rama said he was dismayed by Garbo’s actions and wants him replaced immediately.

The mayor has furnished the offices of PNP Chief Allan Purisima and the National Police Commission-Manila copies of his letter complaint.

Rama warned Garbo that if he will not respond to his request for an explanation, he will take a more serious course of action.   (FREEMAN)