PNP gives men one week to investigate Negros Occidental killings

August 1, 2019

The head of the Philippine National Police on Thursday gave the Directorate for Investigation and Detective Management ( DIDM) at least a week to provide an initial feedback on the killings in Negros Oriental.

In an ambush interview, Police General Oscar Albayalde said he ordered Police Major General Elmo Sarona, director of DIDM, to lead the investigation.

"Since two days ago if I'm not mistaken, I gave a directive to the DIDM to spearhead the investigation. I give them at least a week to give the initial feedback," he said.

As of July 29, around 18 people were reported killed in Negros Oriental.

Albayalde said he is not expecting them to immediately solve the problem.

"I'm not expecting them to totally solve the cases but at least (give)... the true picture on what is the reason on the spate of killings," he said.

The PNP chief said he will wait for their recommendation if there are lapses on the part of the police.

"If the recommendation is reasonable, we will follow," said Albayalde.

On Wednesday, Albayalde ordered the relief of Negros Oriental Police chief Colonel Raul Tacaca to give way for an  impartial investigation. Ella Dionisio/DMS