Olongapo top cop, Laguna police chief sacked

CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga , Philippines  – Olongapo City police director Senior Superintendent Christopher Tambungan was relieved from his post following the alleged involvement of four of his police officers in kidnapping and robbery.

Actor Jhake Vargas earlier filed charges against PO3 Alexander Quinet, PO3 Arnold Chantengco and PO1 Jayson Asuncion, all assigned at Olongapo City Public Safety Company; and PO1 Eleazar Jimenes.

The case stemmed from the arrest of the family members of Vargas in New Cabalan, Olongapo City last month on drug charges. The policemen allegedly demanded P200,000 for their  release.

Chief Superintendent Sonny Cunanan, director for police regional internal affairs here, said Senior Superintendent Noli Talino, deputy regional director for operations of Police Regional Office 3, was named officer-in-charge (OIC) of Olongapo City police. 

The chief of police of  Calamba City, Laguna was also relieved from his post for allegedly failing to curb criminality in his area of jurisdiction.

Chief Superintendent James Melad, Calabarzon police director, said he ordered Superintendent Leovigildo Manaig replaced and named Superintendent Cesar Tanagan as OIC.

Melad told The STAR a revamp across the Calabarzon region is ongoing.

He instructed Tanagan to give priority to the campaign against motorcycle-riding criminals.

Melad also reminded all provincial directors and chiefs of police to intensify their campaign against private armed groups as the midterm election approaches.  – Ric Sapnu, Ed Amoroso