Calling it ‘persecution’: Dolina files motion for reconsideration

PALO, LEYTE, Philippines — Beleaguered Chief Superintendent Asher Dolina, regional director of the Police Regional Office-8, described his dismissal from service as “persecution of the Ombudsman” of his entire police service, which still has two more years before retirement.

Dolina, together with his lawyer, filed a motion for reconsideration before the Ombudsman in connection with the order of dismissal against him and 18 other Philippine National Police officials.

In a phone interview, Dolina told The Freeman they were still on the process of exerting all legal remedies, such as the possible reversal of the Ombudsman decision.

“I will not be making any comments regarding this case, baka ma sub-judice tayo, but as of now hindi ko alam kung ano ang kalagayan ko as director of PRO-8. Just waiting for the right time,” Dolina clarified.

PRO-8 top officials were also surprised of the dismissal of Dolina who, in a recent command conference, informed his staff that they should not be surprised if one of these days his name will be in the newspapers.

Dolina told them he was facing a graft case before the Ombudsman, regarding the allegedly anomalous purchase of about P5 million-worth of police rubber boats in 2009 when he chaired the bids and awards committee of the Police Maritime Command. He however maintained his innocence of the case.

Last October 19, Dolina was on official leave of office for 15 days, but when he was asked if he will still go back his post, he said he did not know yet what will happen to his job at the PRO-8.

Senior Supt. Felix Diloy, chief of the PRO-8 Human Resource and Personnel Division said he has yet to receive any official communication from the PNP national headquarters in relation to the dismissal of Dolina.

Currently, PRO-8 deputy director for administration, Chief Supt. Cedric Train, assumed the regional director’s post in an officer-in-charge capacity.

Senior Supt. Brigido Unay, chief of the PRO-8 Intelligence and Investigation Division, is now concurrent OIC head of the Chief Directorial Staff, replacing Senior Supt. Allan Cuevillas who was named PRO-8’s OIC deputy director for operations, replacing Senior Supt. Teodoro Basa who retired from the service last week.

Dolina said he earlier received a series of anonymous letter demanding for his ouster due to his allegedly not-in-good relationship with the PNP officials. He however said some policemen only resisted against his stern policies against illegal drugs, discipline and reformation. —Miriam Garcia Desacada (FREEMAN)