Pandacan police station chief relieved

Manila City Mayor Lito Atienza ordered yesterday the relief of Superintendent Jose Victor Bantique as Pandacan police station chief following complaints from his subordinates, barangay captains and residents that he allegedly coddled drug pushers and video karera operators.

"People are already marching on the streets against him and this alone has rendered him ineffective in his present post," Atienza said.

Atienza issued the relief order through Western Police District (WPD) director Chief Superintendent Nicolas Pasinos, Bantique’s immediate superior. The mayor also called for a thorough investigation on the charges .

A total of 73 policemen and 33 barangay chairmen signed a petition letter calling for Bantique’s ouster. About a thousand residents joined the protest against Bantique held in front of the Pandacan police station on Jesus street on Monday afternoon.

But Bantique dares his critics to bring their complaints before the proper courts. "I challenge them to file complaints against me in court, than air their grievances in the streets," Bantique said. He claimed the protest picket was instigated by only four barangay chairmen who have an axe to grind against him after he refused to give in to their "whims and caprices."

The petitioners alleged Bantique ordered the illegal release of drug pushers who were arrested during legitimate police operations.

"Bantique’s action as station commander has resulted in the demoralization of policemen under him that even caused tension in his turf, Atienza added. "He has lost the support of the community that he is supposed to serve." – Cecille Suerte Felipe and Nestor Etolle