NAPOLCOM urges whistleblower to file complaint in missing sabungeros case

National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) Vice Chairperson Atty. Rafael Calinisan on Saturday urged whistleblower Julie “Dondon” Patidongan, also known as alias Totoy, to file a complaint affidavit with the agency, as he claimed that some police officers were involved in the disappearance of cockfight enthusiasts or sabungeros.

"I have urged him to file his complaint-affidavit with the NAPOLCOM so we can pursue cases against erring cops," Calinisan told DAILY TRIBUNE.

He said the investigation would move faster under NAPOLCOM since the case is not "on appeal" or appealable.

"You (Patidongan) should file [the affidavit] with NAPOLCOM because it would be faster," Calinisan added, urging the whistleblower.

"Sana i-file niya (alias Totoy) sa NAPOLCOM (I hope he files it with NAPOLCOM.),” he said.

Earlier, Calinisan ordered an immediate probe into the alleged involvement of police in the disappearance of over 100 sabungeros.

“It has to start with NAPOLCOM because it is the police of the police. We cannot not investigate. We are very careful... because eventually, regardless of where it will be filed... the case will reach the NAPOLCOM," Calinisan explained.

He said he has already directed the Inspection, Monitoring, and Investigation Service (IMIS) to conduct a motu proprio investigation into the alleged involvement of several police officers.

Calinisan categorically stated that NAPOLCOM will not hesitate to remove from service any police personnel found to have colluded with those allegedly responsible for the killings and the dumping of bodies in Taal Lake, Batangas.

"To clarify, the case to be filed with the NAPOLCOM, if any, would be an administrative one, to determine the fitness of the policemen involved to remain in police service. In the event that they are deemed liable, the NAPOLCOM may impose suspension, demotion, or even dismissal from the service against erring cops," Calinisan said.

The police officers linked to the case will be summoned to face an administrative probe.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla on Friday said 15 police officers allegedly involved in the executions have been placed under restricted duty.