CPPO augments Compostela police

CEBU, Philippines - Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) Director Patrocinio Comendador sent at least 20 policemen to augment the Compostela Police Station due to threat of another tension.

The augmentation forces are securing the municipal hall everyday, while 40 more officers from the CPPO headquarters are on standby and ready to run to the northern town in case another incident breaks.

Police Senior Inspector Rodrigo Giangan, the chief of the Compostela Police Station, had tendered his resignation last Monday following last week’s incident when supporters of Mayor-elect Joel Quiño stormed the municipal hall.

He submitted his resignation letter to Department of Interior and Local Government 7 Director Pedro Noval, citing last week’s incident as reason. Noval had blamed the police for not securing the municipal hall, where four persons forcibly destroyed the padlock and entered the lobby.

Comendador said Giangan “lacks the motivation and desire to do the job.” He said policemen took their oath and should not resign unless their superiors say so.

“If the superior sees he can no longer handles the situation, that’s the time he’ll be relieved of his post,” the provincial director explained.

The Compostela chief claimed that even if he offered his resignation, he still has to follow further directives and orders from the provincial director.

Comendador said Giangan’s resignation could affect his career record.

“Maayo man siya, buotan, I even advised him not to resign kay I know kaya niya. But he quit. Risk if you must but don’t you quit,” said Comendador.

Comendador said he appreciates Giangan’s works during investigations and his good scholastic records. He plans to assign him to a police station where there is less pressure as soon as they can find someone to replace him in Compostela.

He also advised supporters of both parties of Joel Quiño and Ritchie Wagas to refrain from conducting a rally, otherwise, the police might be compelled to use force. – (FREEMAN)