His relief, which took effect last Tuesday, came less than three weeks after he assumed office as Central Visayas police director.
Camp Crame gave no reason for the relief of the controversial officer who replaced Director Avelino Razon Jr. who, along with several other ranking police officers, were earlier relieved for their alleged failure to curb illegal gambling.
Three other senior police officers were affected in the latest revamp, with Lapinid getting the top post in Region 4 (Southern Tagalog), a development that has elated him.
"It is a welcome development because I will be nearer my home in Los Baños (Laguna). Sa akin, any assignment, welcome ako," Lapinid said.
Lapinid, whom Cebu City Mayor Tomas Osmeña hated, said he actually expected his transfer because he had already been on an extended stint in Central Visayas in various capacities.
Lapinid will be replaced by Senior Superintendent Ernesto Belen, chief of the PNP Firearms and Explosives Division. Belen is expected to assume his new post new week. — Freeman News Service