The Philippine National Police (PNP) accepts the measures undertaken by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) on the nine police officers involved in the Sulu shooting incident.
The investigation of the NBI unraveled the fact that the gun found near the body of Major Marvin Indammog was planted by the police. It was the basis of charging planting of evidence against the nine cops.
However, the PNP made it clear that the action is only an isolated case.
“Hindi ito ang reflection ng buong PNP. Tayo ay patuloy na tumutupad sa mga umiiral na batas. (This is not a reflection of the whole PNP. We are continuously complying with existing laws),” PNP Spokesperson PBGen. Bernard Banac stated.
He added that the police respondents will now have the opportunity to answer allegations since a preliminary investigation is underway.
“Kapag hindi nila naipaliwanag ng husto ay maaaring magresulta sa kanila conviction. Kaya mahalaga na sabihin nila ang totoo. (If they will not be able to explain it thoroughly, it might result to their conviction. That is why it is important for them to tell the truth.)”
For the military’s part, Philippine Army Chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay said that he trusts the “perpetrators” of the incident will answer to the law.
“This is a proof that their cry for justice is being heard, and we are confident that we will secure conviction against the perpetrators of this heinous crime.”
Meanwhile, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Spokesperson Major General Edgard Arevalo shared their sentiments, “We understand that in the rule of law and due process, this is for a long haul. But we are comforted to note that the first step towards the quest for justice in favor of the four slain Philippine Army soldiers was attained.”
Report from Bea Bernardo