The Chief of Police in Bato, Catanduanes has been dismissed from his post following his comment on the brutal shooting incident involving a cop which killed a mother and her son in Tarlac.
A Facebook post of PCpt. Ariel Buraga asserted that the public must learn to respect police personnel since temper and patience are hard to counter. A netizen asked Buraga if the victims were to blame on the incident to which he responded “opo” or yes.
The local government of Bato was alarmed by the response and requested a replacement for Buraga.
“Ina-nalyze ko po yung sitwasyon and ako po, hindi po ako nagandahan doon sa mga sagot niya (I analyzed the situation and I was not impressed by his responses),” Bato Mayor Juan Rudolfo stated.
The mayor relayed how the comment of the local top cop stirred fear in their town although he clarified that Buraga was able to serve his functions as chief of police.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said they respect the appeal of the local government of Bato. Police Regional Office (PRO) 5 disclosed that Buraga’s relief order is effective today, December 22, and he will be replaced by PLt. Fidel Romero Jr.
The former local police chief declined an interview but said his comment is now under investigation.
PNP Spokesperson BGen. Ildebrandi Usana explained Buraga was not able to comply with the PNP policy in terms of social media posting.
“Hindi po ito ikino-consider ng pamunuan o organization.
Subsequently, mayroon pong sanction ang sinumang nagpapahayag ng opinyon na nagbibigay lang ng mas marami pang usapin (The administration or the organization does not consider this. Subsequently, there are sanctions for those who express opinions that give rise to more issues),” he stated. – Report from Bea Bernardo
