NCRPO clarifies incident between Sinas, TV reporter

December 14, 2019

The National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) issued a statement on Saturday about Police Brigadier General Debold Sinas's reported bad behavior of a woman television reporter. 

The National Press Club (NPC) on Friday called the attention of Sinas after his treatment of the reporter during the initial walkthrough at the Quirino Grandstand for the Translacion 2020. 

"Regional Director Sinas assaulted our colleague, a female reporter. The National Press Club urge Sinas, as a public servant, to be professional at all times," said NPC President Paul Gutierrez. 

Gutierrez said the reporter only wanted to interview Sinas. 

In a statement on Saturday, NCRPO said the reporter "interrupted" the conversation between Sinas, Quiapo Church head Monsignor Hernando Coronel, and Alex Limbaga with the Nazareno hijos who were discussing the coming Translacion. 

"She literally butted-in without permission in the middle of the conversation. Thus, PBGen Sinas politely turned down her request and quoting his words, he said: 'wait Miss, we're still discussing'," the statement read. 

"The reporter was however persistent and once again interrupted them prompting PBGen Sinas to reiterate his earlier request," it added. 

The NCRPO also denied accusations that Sinas is anti-media. It explained that the regional director despite releasing protocols for ambush interviews, allowed the female reporter to interview him the last time regarding the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games after she asked permission. 

"NCRPO Acting Chief ( Sinas) never intended to stifle said reporter or any person for that matter. He greatly respects our friends from the media  and acknowledges their indispensable part in public service," the statement added. 

"He however pleads observance of existing protocols and policies for a more systematic and efficient coordination and information sharing in consideration of the complexity of police work," it added. Cristina Eloisa Baclig/DMS