• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The provincial government has appealed to residents of Sibulan and Negros Oriental to remain calm and united in the wake of the Sibulan shootings that killed three policemen and a civilian Jan. 9.
“We call for healing and unity…and for all residents…to remain calm and united during this time of mourning. Let us support one another and work together to overcome the pain and division that such violence brings,” Governor Chaco Sagarbarria said in a statement Jan. 10.
He assured the families of the victims that the provincial government will explore all available assistance and support. “We shall work with the Philippine National Police and other concerned agencies to strengthen internal discipline, mental health support, and ethical standards within law enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.”
The Police Regional Office-Negros Island Region said Jan. 10 that the suspect, P/SSg Bonifacio Saycon Jr. of the Sibulan Municipal Police Station (MPS), his chief of police, P/Capt. Jose Edrohil Cimafranca, as well as PSMS Tristan Joseph Chua and Patrolman Rey Albert Temblor, and civilian Shiela Mae Dinaonao, “were seated on a couch inside” SAB Resto Bar evening of Jan. 9.
At about 9:35 p.m., “without any apparent provocation, the suspect allegedly fired his firearm at (Dinaonao) multiple times, hitting different parts of her body, and causing her instantaneous death. After, the suspect and the police officers were seen boarding a vehicle together,” the PRO-NIR said.
A report of the incident was immediately received by the Sibulan MPS, but upon arrival at the scene, responding officers were informed of the direction taken by the vehicle. “Responding units followed the indicated route and later found a Mitsubishi Lancer, owned by Cimafranca, parked on the roadside in front of Toyota Sibulan (with) the injured police officers inside.”
The three were rushed to the nearest medical facility but were declared dead by an attending physician. Saycon surrendered to the Tanjay City Police Station at 10:40 that night, was turned over to the Sibulan MPS, and is facing criminal and administrative charges, the PRO-NIR added.
Meanwhile, the third Special Investigation Task Group (SITG) case conference on the two shootings was held Jan. 11 at the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office headquarters in Sibulan, presided over by PRO-NIR director, P/BGen. Arnold Thomas Ibay.
The conference formed part of the ongoing, thorough evaluation of the cases to establish all pertinent facts and circumstances, the NORPPO said in a statement as it stressed the PNP’s “unwavering commitment to an impartial, objective, and transparent investigation, emphasizing accountability, professionalism, and strict adherence to the rule of law, as it ensures that due process is observed and justice is served.”
Acting PNP chief, P/Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., on the other hand, ordered unit commanders and heads of offices “to enforce close supervision, uphold strict discipline, and act decisively on any misconduct.”
Command responsibility applies at all levels, and failure to enforce standards will be dealt with in accordance with the law, Nartatez said in a statement Jan. 10. “The PNP maintains a policy of zero tolerance for any immoral, illegal, or unethical act that tarnishes the image of the service or undermines public confidence. The PNP Code of Professional Conduct and Ethical Standards strictly governs the behavior of all personnel to protect the integrity of the organization and sustain public trust.”
“Police authority, particularly the handling of firearms and enforcement powers, must always be exercised with restraint, vigilance, and full accountability,” he said. “All PNP personnel are reminded that they are expected to remain physically, emotionally, and psychologically fit to perform their duties at all times. Any behavior that impairs judgment, weakens control, or poses risk to others is unacceptable.” | CGC
