The National Police Commission has ordered the dismissal of seven policemen from Caloocan City in connection with the death of a young altar boy who contracted leptospirosis after searching for his detained father.

In a press conference, Napolcom vice chairperson Ralph Calinisan said the dismissal was handed down after a thorough investigation and the filing of administrative charges that proved the officers committed “grave misconduct, grave dishonesty, incompetence, oppression and conduct unbecoming of a police officer.”

Included in the dismissal order are two ranking policemen, P/Cpt. Romel Caburog and Sub-Station Commander P/Lt. Jeffren Aganos. The five others are P/Msg. Ryan Candelario, P/Ssg. Stephen Somlani, P/Ssg. Dawin Indiongco, P/Ssg. Rodolfo King Bautista, and P/Cpl. Marvin Resumadero.

“The findings reveal a clear abuse of power and a blatant disregard for due process and human rights. Such actions have no place in the police service,” Calinisan said.

The case involves Dion Angelo “Gelo” dela Rosa, who died after wading through flooded streets for three days in July to find his father, Jayson.

Jayson did not return home on 22 July, and his family sought assistance from Caloocan police on 24 July but were told there was no record of his arrest. Police later said Jayson was arrested on 25 July, the same day his son found him in detention.

Gelo developed a fever and body aches on 27 July and later died from cardiac arrest caused by leptospirosis. His father was released from detention on 2 August.

On 18 August, Jayson dela Rosa, accompanied by Bishop Pablo Virgilio Cardinal David of Caloocan, filed an administrative complaint with Napolcom against the officers.

“Several hearings will be held, then the case was brought to the en banc where the accused police officers were sentenced with exoneration or other penalties,” Calinisan said.

“The Commission remains firm in its mandate to cleanse the police service of erring personnel,” he added. “We owe it to the public to ensure that the Philippine National Police upholds professionalism, integrity, and respect for the rule of law.”