The Leyte Police Provincial Office (LPPO) on Thursday denied allegations by Albuera Mayor Rolan Kerwin Espinosa that he was denied police assistance despite alleged threats to his personal security.

LPPO provincial director Dionisio Apas said the police force conducts all operations strictly in accordance with the rule of law, due process, and established protocols.

“The Office categorically denies that police personnel deliberately withheld lawful assistance, as such actions are contrary to PNP policy and mandate,” Apas said in a statement released Thursday afternoon.

Apas added that requests for police assistance are acted upon “based on legal requirements, credible evidence, and operational considerations, and are never influenced by public statements or social media narratives.”

The LPPO issued the statement following social media posts by Espinosa alleging that he was not provided police security amid threats to his life.

Espinosa surrendered to authorities Thursday morning after a Regional Trial Court in Cebu City issued a warrant for his arrest, along with four other individuals, in connection with a murder case. The court recommended no bail for the accused.

Apas said allegations of police misconduct or failure to act should be raised through proper legal channels.

“Complaints filed by Mr. Espinosa regarding prior incidents are already under impartial investigation by the appropriate authorities. The Office assures the public that these complaints are being addressed transparently and in accordance with due process,” he said.

The LPPO also appealed to public officials and personalities “to exercise responsible communication and to refrain from making unverified claims on social media that may mislead the public or prejudice ongoing investigations.”

“Matters involving law enforcement must be brought before proper authorities to ensure accountability and fairness,” Apas added.

He further advised the public and the media to rely only on official LPPO communication channels for verified updates to prevent the spread of misinformation.