Manila cops dismayed over Ermita station chief's relief

MANILA, Philippines - Rank and file policemen of the Manila Police District yesterday expressed dismay over the relief of the chief of the Ermita police station for allegedly campaigning for former Philippine National Police chief Avelino Razon, who is running for Manila mayor.

The relief of Superintendent Romulo Sapitula, which took effect last night, was reportedly recommended by Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim to MPD director Chief Superintendent Rodolfo Magtibay, who approved the recommendation.

A contemporary of Sapitula who asked not to be identified said Sapitula’s relief was unfair and unjust. “I have had the privilege working with Col. Sapitula, a true officer and gentleman. He is the epitome of professionalism in the police service and a man of unquestioned integrity. I have never known him to be involved in partisan politics,” said the police officer. 

The source said Sapitula’s relief “comes at a very bad time because he is scheduled to receive an award for outstanding station commander while the Ermita police station, which he heads, would also receive an award for being the best police station on the MPD’s anniversary this Tuesday.”

Another MPD police officer assigned to the main headquarters said while he is not completely privy to the circumstances surrounding Sapitula’s relief, there seemed to have been no investigation conducted and that the latter was not accorded due process.

“I know for a fact that Romy was not campaigning for General Razon… He will never violate the official and long-standing policy that police officers should remain politically neutral,” he said.

The police officer, who has been in the force for more than 15 years, also warned that Sapitula’s relief could have a “chilling effect” and cause demoralization among the members of the Manila’s Finest, as well as set a bad precedent. “What is now our protection against intrigues and false accusations? Police officers could now be relieved for allegedly engaging in partisan politics even if there is no sufficient basis and proper investigation to validate such accusations against them,” he said.

On his last hours as Ermita police station commander, Sapitula saw to it that no untoward incident occurred during the procession of the Black Nazarene from Luneta, his area of jurisdiction. He also bid farewell to his men at the Quirino Grandstand yesterday, urging them to support his replacement, Superintendent Jose Hidalgo Jr.

Three other police officials assumed their new posts last night. Meisic police station commander Superintendent Nelson Yabut is the new chief of the Sta. Cruz police station, whose commander, Superintendent Ernesto Tendero, will go to the Moriones police station.

Moriones police station chief Superintendent Rogelio Rosales will take over the Meisic police station.                       – Nestor Etolle