Police arrest three security guards who allegedly stole relief goods in Batangas evacuation center

January 21, 2020

Three security guards were arrested after they were allegedly caught stealing relief goods inside the Batangas Provincial Sports Complex evacuation center Tuesday morning.

According to the Batangas provincial police,  the security guards were identified as Junel Roda Romano, 21; Johnson Rey Rollo Manimtim, 29; and Junito Pacatang Mañabo, 32.

Initial investigation showed that around 6 am the suspects stole 127 pieces of Lucky Me assorted noodles inside two paper boxes; 74 pieces of assorted sardines placed in one paper box; 19 pieces of assorted Nissin Cup Noodles; 12 plastic bags of rice in one brown colored eco bag and 15 pieces of assorted garments.

Police said goods worth P6, 828 were taken by the suspects.

Police Col. Edwin Quilates, the Batangas provincial director, said the arrest of the three security guards is a stern warning especially to everyone in control of relief goods that it should be accounted properly. These goods shall be distributed to those affected by the Taal Volcano eruption.

Quialtes said violators will be subjected to the penalties as prescribed in Section 19 of Republic Act 10121 also known as the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Act of 2010.

“Under this law, prohibited acts include diverting or misdelivery of relief goods, equipment or other aid commodities; and accepting, possessing, using or disposing relief goods, equipment or other aid commodities not intended for nor consigned to him/her,” he said.

Suspects will be facing charges of qualified theft. Ella Dionisio/DMS