MANILA–The police official arrested for violating a standing rule prohibiting government employees from entering casinos has sought a full preliminary investigation of his case to thoroughly explain his side of the story.
In a progress report released to media on Friday, Southern Police District (SPD) Director Tomas Apolinario said Police Supt. Adrian Antonio has been charged with the violation of Art. 231 of the Revised Penal Code for “disobedience” and inquest proceedings was conducted by the Paranaque City Prosecutors Office.
“Herein respondent opted his right for preliminary investigation and presently under the custody of the Paranaque Police Station,” Apolinario said.
He said they will be forwarding the complaint sheet to Antonio’s unit at the Philippine National Police National (PNP) headquarters which will then pursue the possible administrative case against him.
Antonio was apprehended last Tuesday after he got into an altercation while playing baccarat in a casino-hotel in Pasay City. Authorities also seized from Antonio casino chips worth PHP600,000.
PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. John Bulalacao earlier confirmed that a lifestyle check is being conducted by the PNP Internal Affairs Service on the 35-year-old Antonio.
Aside from disobedience raps, Antonio also faces charges for violating Republic Act No. 6713 otherwise known as the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.
In Memorandum Circular No. 6 dated Sept. 20, 2016, the Office of the President directed all government officials and employees to strictly observe and comply with the prohibition against going to gambling places, citing “its negative effect on the public perception of government service as a whole.”(PNA)
