By Ruth Abbey Gita-Carlos | Philippine News Agency
Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) spokesperson Winston Casio has been relieved from his post and is under administrative investigation following his supposed mistreatment of a Filipino national during a raid on a Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) hub in Bagac, Bataan, Malacañang confirmed Tuesday.
In a text message to Palace reporters on Tuesday, Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin said Casio was ordered to “explain [his] actuations in writing.”
Footage of Casio slapping a POGO worker during the Oct. 31 raid circulated on social media, prompting the PAOCC to issue on Monday a memorandum mandating him to submit a written explanation within 24 hours.
The memorandum also informed Casio that he is “relieved of [his] responsibilities as spokesperson for PAOCC effective immediately and until the completion of the investigation.”
“The incident occurred following the execution of a search warrant at that location and is reported to have been documented, with the footage now circulating on social media platforms,” the memorandum read.
“Your immediate response is crucial, as it will significantly influence the Office’s consideration of any subsequent actions. It is critical for you to comprehend that any failure to provide your explanation will be deemed a waiver of your right to contribute to this process,” it added.
Casio apologizes
In a statement, Casio apologized to Bersamin, who chairs the commission, and Executive Director Usec. Gilbert Cruz, as well as to his colleagues in the PAOCC.
The official acknowledged that he “should have simply filed the necessary charges against the person who flashed the dirty finger at us and insulted our office with vitriol.”
“Then again, my temper got the better of me,” Casio said.
He then called on the public not to associate his actions to the entire PAOCC workforce.
“The agency is manned by level-headed professionals. And as a team, we always put in work hours [than] what is normally required because we do not want to disappoint the people. I have disappointed all of them; therefore, I have apologized to them as well,” he said.
“As I embark on a period of reflection during this most humbling time, I subject myself to whatever administrative measures that the Commission will impose. No matter where this episode will lead me, I will continue to serve the Filipino people in whatever capacity.” (With Darryl John Esguerra/PNA)
