3 more Antipolo cops hunted for extortion

MANILA, Philippines -  A manhunt for three more Antipolo City policemen who allegedly extorted money from a drug suspect is underway.

Chief Inspector Jewel Nicanor, spokesman for the Counter Intelligence Task Force of the Philippine National Police, withheld the names of the policemen pending further investigation.

Police Officer 2 Randolf Opeñano, PO1 Alejo de Guzman and PO2 Erwin Fernandez of the Antipolo police drug enforcement unit were earlier arrested for allegedly extorting money from Joseph delos Santos, who was arrested in a sting on July 20.

SPO1 Ginnie San Antonio was released after witnesses failed to identify him as among those who allegedly demanded P150,000 from the father of Delos Santos  in exchange for lowering the charges against the suspect.

Aside from administrative charges, the policemen face charges for robbery-extortion, graft and violation of the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.