National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Vice Chairperson and Executive Officer (VCEO) Commissioner Rafael Vicente R. Calinisan has confirmed that attempts were made by certain individuals to influence the ongoing investigation into the alleged involvement of 12 police officers in the high-profile case of missing “sabungeros” or cockfighting aficionados.
In an exclusive interview with ABS-CBN News, Commissioner Calinisan revealed that the NAPOLCOM has received credible information pointing to two groups that allegedly tried to interfere with the direction of the inquiry.
“May dalawang grupo na sinusubukan tayong ayusin. ‘Yung una, isang bossing ng sabong na sinusubukan niyang dipahan ‘yung kanyang mga pulis diumano. Yung pangalawa, yung grupo ng isang local government executive, na gustong iklaro yung kanyang pangalan at gumagawa ng maraming kaparaanan na para maayos yung kanyang kaso at gusto pang ilapit sa akin,” Commissioner Calinisan said.
Despite these efforts, the NAPOLCOM chief assured the public that the Commission remains unwavering in its commitment to impartiality, transparency, and due process.
“So hindi ako papayag, hindi tayo papa-areglo. Siguro ang mensahe ko na lang dun sa dalawang grupo eh huwag niyo na hong subukan, klaro po ang utos sa amin ng Presidente na no cover ups, no stone unturned. Kami po sa NAPOLCOM hindi papayag na papa-impluwensya sa kahit na kanino. Hindi po kami natatakot, wala po kaming uurungan,” he adds.
The Inspection, Monitoring and Investigation Service (IMIS) of NAPOLCOM is currently evaluating the counter-affidavits submitted by the 12 active members of the Philippine National Police (PNP). These were filed in response to the administrative complaints lodged by a key witness identified as “Alyas Totoy.”
Commissioner Calinisan emphasized that the NAPOLCOM will not be deterred by external pressures and will allow the evidence to speak for itself. He also encouraged individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist in ensuring that justice is served.
“This investigation is being handled with the highest degree of integrity. We owe that to the families of the missing individuals and to the Filipino people,” Calinisan added.#
