Cabugao police chief charged for obstruction of justice over death of teenager in Ilocos Sur

July 12, 2020

The chief of Cabugao Municipal Police Station in Ilocos Sur is now facing administrative cases for not giving proper assistance to the 15-year old girl who was allegedly killed by his two cops, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP) on Sunday.

In a radio interview, Police Brigadier General Bernard Banac said obstruction of justice was filed against Cabugao Police Captain Ramil Llarenas.

“Cases for obstruction of justice were filed against the chief of Cabugao (MPS) for neglecting the case,” Banac said.

Llaneras allegedly tried to convince the victim and her cousin not to file rape charges and acts of lasciviousness complaint against Police Staff Sergeant Randy Ramos and Police Staff Sergeant Marawi Torda.

“This is included in the investigation and also the administrative cases against them… we are looking if there are lapses in the incident,” Banac said.

The victims who came from Cabugao were arrested and allegedly harassed by the two cops assigned in San Juan MPS for curfew violation.

After the two girls filed their complaint, the two cops reportedly attacked them.

According to the victim’s cousin, she was able to escape but the 15-year old girl was killed by the policemen.

The PNP already filed murder complaints against Ramos and Torda before the Provincial Prosecutor of Ilocos Sur.

Because of the incident, Banac said all personnel from Cabugao and San Juan police stations were relieved from their post.

“All policemen assigned in Cabugao police station and San Juan police station were removed from post. They were removed so that they will undergo training to refresh their minds on their duties and responsibilities,” he said.

“This (neglect of duty) happens that’s why the cops will undergo refresher training… we need to remind them that public service is a serious matter,” he added.

The police official said the Ilocos police regional director already sent replacement troops to handle the responsibilities and duties of the police station.

Banac apologized to the families of the victims over the incident. Ella Dionisio/DMS