David hails dismissal of 7 Caloocan cops

MANILA, Philippines — Caloocan Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David yesterday hailed the decision of the National Police Commission to dismiss the seven police officers involved in the arrest of a man whose son waded through floodwaters to search for the father and later died of leptospirosis.

“This is a big, positive development. The poor, the needy are often bullied. With this decision, there is hope that our government system can function if the agencies with authority (act correctly),” David said.

David described the Napolcom’s decision as a major victory for the people, as he emphasized the importance of civilian oversight or monitoring of uniformed personnel as foundation of a strong democracy in the country.

Jayson dela Rosa was brought to a substation on July 22, but the logbook showed no record of his arrest.

The case drew attention after his son Dion Angelo, a college student and an altar server, died of leptospirosis after wading through floodwaters.